Mario Zapata, 64, of South Windsor, beloved husband of the late Norma Santiago, died peacefully on Saturday, June 27, 2026, surrounded by his family. Mario was born in New York City, NY, on November 29, 1961.

Mario grew up in New York and Puerto Rico and was a graduate of Antilles High School. He went on to serve our country with the U.S. Air Force from 1984-1990. Mario worked as an air traffic controller in the Air Force and deployed overseas. Upon returning from the service, he became an air traffic controller at the San Juan International Airport until retiring in 2016 in Connecticut.

Mario found a second family with the American Legion South Windsor Post #133 which he joined over 10 years ago. A member of the Honor Guard, the post activities and members filled his retirement with happiness.

Mario’s family and friends were the most important part of his life. He found joy in music and good food. He spent his life helping others through volunteering with FEMA, performing search and rescue in the Caribbean, and supporting volunteer organizations. He would go out of his way to help anyone in need.

Living on the island of Puerto Rico, Mario loved the beach. He was a scuba instructor and spent as much time as possible in the water. A kind, caring, loving and devoted family man and friend, he will be dearly missed.

He leaves his daughter, Raquel and her husband Adam; his stepsons, Alexis, Hector and his wife Alexandra; his grandchildren whom he adored, Nev, Versaly, and Alejandro.

His family will receive friends for calling hours on Saturday, August 1, 2026, from 10-11 a.m., at the Samsel & Carmon Funeral Home, 419 Buckland Rd., South Windsor. A celebration of life will follow in the funeral home beginning at 11 a.m., with burial and Air Force Military Honors to follow in Wapping Cemetery. For online condolences please visit www.carmonfuneralhome.com