On July 6th, 2023, Evan “Papito” Flores Sr, 58 of Rochester New York gained his wings after a long courageous battle with cancer. He passed into the loving arms of his wife Darlene Jones of Buffalo New York. Darlene and Evan had what could only be described as a young love full of life and laughter. Brought together by what could only be recognized as the grace of God. Evan spent his whole life taking care of those around him until he finally met someone to take care of him. Darlene’s strength and immeasurable love were seen and felt by not only Evan but by those around them. Their love will live on for each other in eternity.
Evan was a man of rugged independence in his short life. He accomplished many things but was most proud of his nursing career. He had a natural instinct to care for people from being an EMT to a MA. A die-hard Dallas cowboys’ fan and always loved to catch a red wings game. A game of dominoes with the guys was never dismissed. A man full of life taken too soon. Evan was a great dad who always made sure his children were happy. He made sure they were brought up surrounded by the value and importance of family from family brunches to dance parties in the living room. Even things as simple as a day in the park or a baseball game were accompanied by the immense love, he had for all his children and the adoration they all shared for him.
He leaves behind his surviving children, Jessica Flores and husband Victor Mercado Sr., Abianna Collins, Luana Aponte (Flores) and husband Nelson Aponte, Evan Flores Jr. and wife Charlena Flores, and Dezaray Cannon-Flores and companion Indio Velez, and Philip Rodriguez.
Evan was not only a great dad but a proud grandfather. He made his presence known at his grandchildren’s baseball games and made sure everyone knew he was their number one fan. Sleepovers at “Welos” were never dry of laughter and jokes. He never missed a chance to celebrate his grandchildren whether it was a birthday, graduation, normal holiday or a Thursday. The feelings he brought to his grandchildren and those around him will live on in infamy.
He was adored by his prized Grandchildren, Victor Mercado Jr. , Jasmine Collins, Jayson Mercado, Zayden Aponte, Janalyse Aponte, Juan Mercado, Javiair Flores, Jovannie Mercado, Nathalia Flores, Jadiel Mercado, Jaire Flores, Leah Rodriguez and Tony Rodriguez. He will be missed and forever cherished by his surviving siblings, Josie Cirilo, Ana Morales, Ida Soto, Abigail Collins, Felix Soto Jr., Migdalia Cruz and 30 amazing Nieces and Nephews. Pre-deceased by Father Hiram Flores, Mother Ana Soto, Mother-in-law Linda LaRoe, sister Sonia Morales, and sister Bruny Morales.
Services will be held on Friday July 14th from 3:30pm – 6pm at Rochester Cremation Greece location, 1118 Long Pond Road, Rochester, NY 14626.
