Luis A. Santiago (Pops), 75, of Weeki Wachee, Florida, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on November 21, 1949, in Río Piedras, Puerto Rico, Luis lived a life marked by service, strength, and compassion.

Luis proudly served in the United States Air Force, where he rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant. During the Vietnam War, he was a dedicated Crew Chief on the F-4 Phantom, known for his exceptional skill, attention to detail, and unwavering sense of duty. He took great pride in maintaining his aircraft to the highest standard and was often praised by the very pilots whose lives depended on his care. Following his time in Vietnam, Pops continued his service as an Air Force Recruiter, inspiring and guiding countless young men and women to pursue lives of purpose. His motivation and passion for the service he cherished resonated to those he inspired to step into the role of future leaders as sons and daughters of America’s finest.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Carmen, and his four children: Luis Francisco, Cindy, Alfred, and Angel. He also leaves behind his treasured grandchildren—Mari, Kayla, Sofia, and Joshua—and his great-grandchildren: Sadie, Ryder, Mason, and Koda Luis. Pops’ extended family includes his brother Ed, his sister Sylvia, his devoted son-in-law Rick, nephews, nieces, cousins and friends. His family was the heart of his life, and through each of them, his legacy of love, kindness, and quirky humor will continue to shine.

Luis was known for his good-natured spirit, his love of music, and a natural gift for turning any space into something special. Whether decorating a home, fixing what was broken, or creating something from scratch, Pops approached everything with creativity, care, and an eye for beauty. After leaving the military, he followed his own path—driven not by convention, but by curiosity, determination, and a deep desire to make meaningful contributions through his skill and insightful nature. He had a unique ability to see possibility where others might not, and he brought ideas to life—especially when they meant helping someone in need.

In his younger years, Pops was a gifted athlete, excelling in both baseball and track and field. His talent on the baseball field even earned him the opportunity to play minor league ball for the New York Yankees—a dream he set aside to serve his country. His love for the Yankees never faded. He followed every season faithfully, often dozing off to the sound of a game on the TV, letting the rhythm of the sport he loved bring him peace.

Among his greatest accomplishments were his service to his country and the many lives he touched along the way. Pops had a heart that leaned naturally toward giving—always finding a way to help, even when it meant sacrificing his own comfort. He had a way of staying hopeful, even in life’s darkest moments, often reminding others “This too shall pass.”

Pops had a presence that could be felt in any room—whether he was at his best or facing life’s hardest days. In joy or in struggle, his spirit never dimmed. Even in quiet moments, there was something powerful about him—a steady warmth and sincerity that left a lasting impression. When he was thriving, he lifted others with him. And when he struggled, he still revealed the depth of his strength and humanity. His laughter, his love, and his steady presence brought people together in ways that words can scarcely express. Though his absence leaves an unfillable space, the impact of his life will live on in everyone blessed to have known him.

A private memorial will be held for family and close friends.