Alberto José Arana Palacios

With deep love and sorrow, we announce the passing of Alberto José Arana Palacios, who was called home to be with the Lord on April 22, 2026, at the age of 88, in the peace of his home in Ocala, Florida. He was born on September 25, 1937, in Managua, Nicaragua, and throughout his life distinguished himself as a man of strong character, firm principles, and a deep sense of responsibility and love for his family. He shared 30 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Nidia Montoya Castillo, with whom he built a life based on respect, unity, and love. He served honorably and with distinction in the Army for 30 years, achieving the rank of First Sergeant. His distinguished military career included service in Germany during the Cold War and two deployments to Vietnam. His service was marked by discipline, courage, and a profound sense of duty, earning him numerous recognitions and the respect of those who served alongside him. Among his honors, he received a medal awarded by the President, reflecting his exemplary service and dedication. Following his military retirement, he continued his calling to serve others by graduating from Columbia University as a psychologist, dedicating his life to helping others. He later served as a recruiter for the Army, guiding and mentoring new generations with his experience and leadership. For 12 years, he also served as a Christian missionary, bringing aid, donated medical supplies, and hope to underserved communities, including Terrabona, Matagalpa, impacting the lives of hundreds through his compassion and dedication. He was a disciplined, responsible man, firm in his word, and a loving grandfather, always carrying a smile even through hardship. He instilled in his family the value of unity, serving as an example of strength, love, and commitment. In his personal life, he enjoyed graphic design on computers, handcrafts, especially making greeting cards, as well as cooking and spending time with family. He found joy in the peace of his home and in life’s simple pleasures, such as enjoying a good dessert. In his later years, he embraced the Evangelical Christian faith, serving as a missionary and living according to his beliefs, guided by the Word of God. He is survived by his wife, Nidia Montoya Castillo; his eldest daughter, Irela N. Arana; his children from a previous marriage: Richard Arana, Rubén Arana (daughter Abby), and Angelique Erdman (husband Kevin; children Laurena, Marissa, and Konrad); and was preceded in death by his son, Werner Arana. He also leaves a legacy of love in Adriana Castillo (husband Alonzo) and Adrián Castillo (wife Jacky), who were raised by him and had the privilege of calling him father. He was also a proud grandfather of Andrea and Anthony (children of Adriana Castillo and Alonzo), and Adrián Jr. and Fabio (children of Adrián Castillo and Jacky), whom he deeply loved and with whom he shared many joyful moments. He is also survived by his siblings Luis Arana, Gloria Arana, María José Arana, and Martha Arana, and was preceded in death by his parents, Alberto Arana and María Luisa Palacios. He will be remembered as a protective, responsible, and deeply loving father, whose legacy of service and devotion will live on in all those whose lives he touched. Condolences may be sent to the family at https://www.beyersfuneralhome.com/ Arrangements have been entrusted to Purcell Chapel – Beyers Funeral Home, Bushnell, Florida.

Alberto José Arana Palacios

August 25, 1937 - April 22, 2026