Michael R. Jimenez's Obituary
Michael Richard Jimenez, 72, of Leesburg, FL, passed away peacefully at home on January 19, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on May 12, 1952, in Bayonne, NJ, to Arnaldo Luis and Alice June (Sullivan) Jimenez. The family relocated to Miami, FL in 1957.
Michael proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Army, before beginning a distinguished career as a Firefighter/EMT with the City of Miami Fire Department, where he served for 25 years (Badge #261). His dedication to his community was recognized when he received the prestigious State of Florida Firefighter of the Year award in 1988.
After his retirement, Michael moved to the “ranch” in Lady Lake, FL. He remained dedicated to serving the community by volunteering as a team lead on a brush truck during the 1998 Florida Wildfires. He later began taking on jobs in construction, Lake County mosquito control and as an agent with the knights of Columbus.
Upon settling in Leesburg in 2012 he began working for Page Theus Funeral Home
Michael was very civic minded and a dedicated volunteer, especially at St. Paul's Catholic School where he served in many capacities, especially enjoying chaperoning and building their Christmas float.He was also a passionate supporter of St. Paul’s PTO, the Leesburg Bike Fest, and was a beloved volunteer father at father-daughter dances.
With family, friends and neighbors he was always the first to jump in and lend a hand and the last to leave
Michael was known for his infectious sense of humor and his ability to connect with anyone he met. His genuine warmth, quick wit, and remarkable sense of wonder and enthusiasm for life left a lasting impact on all who knew him. Whether through his work, volunteer efforts, or time with family, Mike gave 110% to everything he did.
Mike will be missed dearly by many and leaves a lasting impression.
Michael is survived by his beloved wife of over 30 years, Audrey Kellaher, their grandchildren, Brendon and Collin and his fiancée Emilee; his son, Michael C. Jimenez, and his wife Crystal, and their children: Alanah, Gabriella, Michael N, René, and Nicholas; his stepdaughter, Sarah Cichielo and her husband James; his siblings, Paul (Helen) Jimenez, his devoted sister Rosemary (Al) Banos, and June Rogers; many loving nieces, nephews, and extended family, Christian and his wife Patricia
Michael is preceded in passing by his parents; Arnaldo and Alice Jimenez, a stepdaughter, Corryne, siblings; Louie (Vicky), Cheech and Syliva.
Memorial Contributions can be made in Michael's loving memory to Cornerstone Hospice or St. Paul's Catholic Church.
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