Carlos Antonio "Tony" Rojas Sr. was born in Havana, Cuba. At the age of six, he emigrated to the United States with his mother, Estrella Duran, and two sisters, Estrella and Gisela. They lived in New York for several years before relocating to Miami, Florida, where he attended Coral Park High School.

He joined the United States Navy at 17 and traveled the world. During this time, he became a citizen of the United States, one of his proudest achievements. It was also during this time he met Sylvia Cruz in Jacksonville, Florida, whom he married in 1982. Tony and Sylvia had two children, Carlos Jr. and Daniel.

He had a passion for music, and he loved to dance. He took pride in having the loudest home entertainment system, and routinely woke up the household with the booming sounds from his newest speakers. His love of music knew no bounds, as it stretched from the Rolling Stones to Celia Cruz to Garth Brooks to Earth Wind and Fire to Jay Z. He loved to dance salsa, as well as the latest country line dances. Dad's dancing shoes found their way onto the feet of his youngest son, Danny, which he has worn proudly since he was a toddler. They also share a love for the latest and greatest in technology, with both comparing their respective systems when visiting each other's homes. Dad also loved to sing karaoke, and carried a karaoke system to all family events while the family was still in Tampa.

He was the ultimate Tampa Bay food guide. He knew where the newest must-visit spots were, and which places were opening soon. Many of his daily activities were planned by their proximity to the nearest quality restaurant. He was a master of taking advantage of the best deals in the area, and always knew how to ensure he had a "snack" for later. When his sons visited, they were always guaranteed to enjoy a meal at one of the Rojas Family staples with Dad.

His work ethic was undeniable. While working full-time at the U.S. Postal Service, he became a Florida Realtor. Finding the perfect home at the perfect price for his clients gave him a sense of purpose. He eventually moved to real estate full time, where his ambitions could take flight. He always dreamed of opening his own office, a dream he achieved in 2017.

He loved people. He was comfortable in any situation, whether it be a one-on-one setting or with a group of hundreds. During his spare time, he became an Uber driver so he could meet new people every day. His smile would light up a room, and his laugh was infectious. He gave the biggest hugs. He made every one count, and you never felt cheated when he wrapped his arms around you. He shared all of his warmth and love with every squeeze.

Above all, he loved his sons. So much so that he dealt with the constant abuse they delivered to him, such as messing with his feet as he laid in bed, diving on top of him as he tried to get work done, sneaking up behind him and tipping him to the point of nearly falling, flicking his ears as he spoke with others, and more. He made sure he had the latest video and computer games for Danny, and enough baseballs, footballs, and basketballs for Carlos. Tampa Lanes saw many visits from Dad and Sons, as it was the perfect marriage for Carlos' love of sports and Danny's love of video games. He enjoyed the water cooler sports talk during every conversation with Carlos, and his conversations with Danny were full of the same energy you'd see from them on the dance floor, with perhaps a mention or two of the latest food spots they would surely attend during Dad's next visit. He was never ashamed to express his love to his sons, whether with hugs, kisses, or special hand shakes, and always beamed with pride at their achievements.

He always strived to live life to the fullest, and to never let a day pass without fun and laughter. He did just that. He had many incredible qualities, but his greatest was being a loving father. His sons will proudly carry on his legacy.

We love you, Popsmico.

Carlos Jr. and Daniel Rojas

"Entrusted To Our Care"
MacDonald Funeral Home