Rafael E. Tolentino

Rafael “Carlos” Tolentino, passed away peacefully surrounded by family early Monday morning, September 15, 2025, at the age of 89.

He was born May 20, 1936, in the Dominican Republic. There, he worked as a farmhand and eventually became a police officer in Santo Domingo before emigrating to the U.S. in 1965. Throughout his life in the States, he worked as a cab driver, a truck driver, a house painter, and eventually a bodega owner before retiring and living with his daughter Ingrid.

Though he embraced America and all it had to offer, Carlos always held the Dominican Republic in his heart as his home. He made a point to return as often as he could to give back to the country that raised him. He went so far as to string up the first power lines in Isabel’s remote village himself.

Carlos was defined by his tireless work ethic, determination, and generosity. In 1999, he founded La Asociación Tolentino, an association dedicated to helping less fortunate Dominican families. The association will continue his legacy of giving back.

Carlos was a devoted father, brother, grandfather and uncle. He adored his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Isabel, his children Ingrid, Jose, Carlos, Juan and David, 13 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren.

He loved baseball, especially the Yankees, performing acts of service, playing dominoes, telling stories and making people laugh.

In lieu of sending flowers, Carlos would want you to make a donation to your charity of choice in his honor.