Our Community Has Suffered Heartbreaking Loss
Life is just so fragile. I just saw Roque Pastorius a couple of days ago. We talked for several minutes about what has happened to our community over the last six months and what he has done to help. He was grinning from ear to ear when we talked about our grandkids! He told me some great stories from his days as the owner of the “Monkey Bus.” Roque was a really special guy. Always smiling with a good joke to tell, he will be missed beyond words.
Our condolences to Roque’s wife, Kathy, and the entire family. Roque’s sudden passing is just so tragic. Kathy, you can be sure that our community is here to help you in any way that we can.
Here is the post on Facebook from Roque’s daughter, Cassandra Johnson:
It is with heavy hearts that I share the new of the very sudden loss of our dad Roque Pastorius. This morning, our mom woke up to find that he had peacefully passed in his sleep. While we are still unsure of the cause of death and processing this unexpected loss, we find comfort in knowing he was loved by so many. He will be greatly missed.
We will share more information about a celebration of life to honor him at a later date. Thank you all for your love, support, and prayers during this difficult time.

Some thoughts on Facebook from Cortezian, Rose Lipke:
Oh Roque Pastorius, I am so grateful for the adventures we have had! I woke up this morning rolling through years of memories of you in my mind, from the random calls to talk about your latest ideas to our trip to Everglades City after Irma to bringing me coffee for the Sunday morning “emergency” lettering job It’s been one hell of a ride and you did it all with integrity, a huge heart and lots of love. You will be forever missed my friend! Kathy Pastorius my heart is breaking for you love…you know I am always always always here for you. Sending so much love and comfort and peace to you.
Photos from sandecaplin.com & The Suncoast Post.