Rafael Fuentes

Rafael Fuentes 94, of Reading, Pennsylvania passed away Tuesday January 2, 2024, in the Reading Hospital surrounded by his loving family and friends.  Born in Hatillo, Puerto Rico, he was the son of the late Maria Rosado and Juan Fuentes. He was the loving husband of Amelida Fuentes (Betancourt) whom he celebrated 67 years of marriage with and who passed away on September 27, 2020.  Rafael worked as a material handler for Rockwell International for several years before retiring in 1991.  

Rafael was a member of St. Peter the Apostle RCC for over 55 years. He was a participant and worker in the Encuentros Matrimoniales, Catholic Charismatic Renewal, and Cursillos de Cristiandad. He was a member of El Santo Nombre, Divina Misericordia, La Legión De Maria, The Legion of Mary Artistic Group, St. John the Baptist Festival Committee, and the Berks County prison ministry.  He was a volunteer at the Kennedy House and most special to him, was his service as Eucharistic Minister. 

Rafael enjoyed spending time with his immediate and extended family members. He was known for making jokes and bringing laughter to others. Rafael, however, especially enjoyed serving the Lord in his everyday life, whether at home or in the community. This brought him true joy. 

Rafael is survived by his daughter Magda Fuentes of Reading, with whom he resided, Héctor Manuel Betancourt of California, and Iris Mirta Fuentes of New York.  Also surviving are his 12 grandchildren, many great grandchildren as well as great great grandchildren, and his sister, Angelica Betancourt.  In addition to his wife, Amelida, Rafael is predeceased by his children, Nilda E Nieves, Rafael Fuentes Jr, William Betancourt, Carmelo Betancourt and his siblings, Ernesto Rosado, Israel Fuentes, Rosa Galán, Teresa Centeno, Edith Fuentes, Juana Morales and Aida Torres.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, January 9, 2024, at 10:00am in Saint Peter the Apostle Roman Catholic Church, 322 S. 5^th Street, Reading.  Monsignor Thomas J. Orsulak to celebrate.  The family will receive relatives and friends Monday, January 8, 2024, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm and Tuesday, January 9, 2024, from 9:00 am to 10:00 am in Saint Peter the Apostle Church.  Interment will follow mass at Gethsemane Cemetery.  Whelan Schwartz Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements and online condolences may be made at www.whelanschwartz.com.