Francisco Norat

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Co. G 1948, Co. F 1951-1952 (Deceased 2021)

Article:

FRANCISCO J. NORAT

December 23, 1930 – February 4, 2021

Francisco Norat was born on December 21, 1930 in Cayey, Puerto Rico.  He left his home early in order to enlist in the U.S. Army. He was assigned to the 65th Infantry Regiment as a “Borinqueneer” and served in Company G from 1948-1949 and in Company F from 1951-1952.   In 2016, he was honored with the Congressional Medal of Honor for his service which was a very proud moment in his life as well as for his loved ones. 

Francisco led a simple and joyful life.  After leaving the Army, he settled in New York City where he lived for the rest of his life (98% of this time he lived in El Barrio in Spanish Harlem, NYC).    He was a worker and always provided for his family.  He was so proud to be Puerto Rican and he made sure he instilled this pride in his children.  He made sure they spoke Spanish and practiced traditional Puerto Rican cultures, starting with the history of his island, food and especially the music.  Rafael Hernandez, La Tuna de Cayey and all other classic Puerto Rican music was always playing in our apartment.

His 90 year journey here on Earth ended peacefully and painlessly on Thursday, February 4, 2021 as his daughters held his hands.

He was a proud and loving husband and father, and is survived by his wife Francisca Norat, to whom he was married for 64 1/2 years and his three children, Edna Norat, Michael Norat and Sally Costeira; seven grandchildren, Geovani Quiñones II, Anthony Quiñones, Steven Quiñones, Francis Norat, John Norat, Alyssa Reynoso and Daniel Costeira; two great grandchildren, Geovani Quiñones III and Aidan Quiñones.

There are some who bring a light so great to the world that even after they have gone, their light remains.

 

Submitted by his daughter Edna Norat

edna.norat@gmail.com

 

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