Fernando Groene

On December 8th, 2020, Fernando Antonio Groene Diaz, 91, of Miami Florida was suddenly called home by the Lord. Fernando was born in Havana, Cuba, the second child of Augusto and Maria Antonia Groene. Augusto was a German immigrant to Cuba and Fernando was always proud of both his German and Spanish heritage earning him the nickname, El Alemán (The German.)

After graduating from the Marist Brothers School, and an accounting college, Fernando began his career as an accountant with Medias Once Once. This began a lifelong collaboration and friendship with Roberto “Tito” Colon and his family. In 1962, Fernando courageously gave up his home, his job, and all his material possessions in his beloved Cuba to give his family an opportunity for a life of freedom and security in the United States.

For a year, Fernando humbled himself to support his young family in Miami by working in the Everglades and sugar cane fields. During this difficult time, Fernando and Aleida also welcomed their young cousins into their home when they left Cuba without their own parents. Eventually, Fernando moved his family to Puerto Rico and was blessed to resume his career with Medias Once Once as an accountant.

Fernando was happiest when he was walking on the beach, bathing in the ocean and relaxing with his many friends at Casa Cuba in Isla Verde, PR. After retirement, he and Aleida returned to Miami to be close to family, Fernando’s love of numbers and finance continued into his retirement years and was evidenced by his constant interest in following the markets. When he wasn’t checking the numbers, you could find him on the patio enjoying a cigar with a beer or glass of red wine.

Fernando will be sorely missed by his loving wife of 65 years, Aleida, and his children Fernando (Rita) and Ana. His six grandchildren, Robert, Maggie, Nicky, Max, Grace and Emma adored their “Papi” and are ever thankful for his influence in their lives and the example he set of courage, hard work, and faithfulness. He is remembered fondly by a large extended family of many cousins, nieces and nephews. Fernando’s immediate family are forever indebted to their cousin, Ruben Gonzalez, for his years of selfless dedication, devotion, and care to both Fernando and Aleida. Lastly, as we write this and remember Fernando today while sitting on his patio, we are visited by his friends, the birds, that were lovingly fed by Fernando each day and who mark his absence with their songs.