In Memory of

Luis Deliz

November 30, 2019

Obituary

Luis Deliz was born and raised on the beautiful island of Puerto Rico in 1934.

Looking for greater opportunities, at 18 years old, Luis arrived in New York City; with not only hopes of establishing a career for himself but also finding the means to support the family he left back home.

Prior to the opportunity of a lifetime to work with The Port Authority, Luis worked as a waiter, busboy, dishwasher, yellow-cab driver and aircraft maintenance worker-hard work was in his blood.

He had the honor to work at both of New York’s greatest airports, J.F.K. and La Guardia. To say he loved working for The Port Authority of NY/NJ is only an understatement. Luis took pride in everything that he did. Whether it was designing a floral landscape reading “WELCOME TO J.F.K.” or shoveling snow off the runways, to de-icing planes and responding to emergencies like the bombing at La Guardia Airport in 1975. Luis relished in working alongside an incredible team.

Following his 25 years of service, Luis was proud of his accomplishments while being employed by The Port Authority of NY/NJ and ultimately decided to retire and return to his home in Puerto Rico. While his time working in New York was limited, Luis continued to carry and never failed to show-off his Port Authority of NY/NJ ID with most respect and pride. It was a badge of honor that remained in his pocket long after his retirement. In fact, until the day he died. This ID was a symbol of his hard work, dedication, and ultimate love for the City of New York and this great nation. As he would say, “God Bless America.”

A man of many stories and lessons learned, Luis left behind this wisdom from his experience working with The Port Authority of NY/NJ: “A good job, if you work hard, gives you dignity, self-esteem and respect, no matter the ups and downs life brings. So, no Monday Blues.”

Unfortunately, Luis passed away in Puerto Rico following a fall in his home. He left behind so many memories, so many stories and so many lessons that his family continues to cherish to this day. His love, dedication and spirit continue to live on through not only with his grandchildren, Francisco and Miguel, but also his two daughters, Elizabeth and Nancy.