Gustavo P. Aponte, affectionately known as Gus, of DeWitt, NY, died peacefully in his home May 8, 2017, with his family by his side. He was 66 years old.
Gus is survived by his wife, Carol Dewitt Aponte of DeWitt, NY, his daughter Jan'Ann Aponte Liberman, son-in-law, Gregory Liberman, and his beloved grandson, Jacob Liberman, of Albany, NY. He is also survived by nine siblings, Jesús Maria, Lisandro, Luis Francisco, Stella, Gloria, Maria de Jesús, Marta, Guillermo, and Luz Helena, of Bogotá, Colombia, along with his in-laws, and many first and second generation nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister, Limbania and his first wife, Pat Aponte.
Gus was born in Bogotá, Colombia. He immigrated to the United States in 1971. He quickly learned English, and after the birth of his daughter Jan'Ann, he began his career in insurance and banking. In 2009, Gus retired and moved with his wife Carol from New York City to DeWitt, NY to assume his greatest role – Grandpa. He cherished his time as Grandpa, reveling in showing his grandson, Jacob, windows of opportunity, helping him learn chess, and teaching him to look at the world in a kind, generous, and humorous way.
Gus was well known for his sense of humor, kindness, and his unique way of looking at the world. He had a knack for making everyone he came in contact with smile. He will be remembered for the way he connected with people from all walks of life, and how those connections made us all feel when in his presence. His kindness and sense of humor made a mark on everyone he met.
He was an accomplished gardener and maintained beautiful landscapes at his homes in Manhattan, Queens, and DeWitt, NY. His love of flowers and birds remains evident at his home garden, which will be lovingly maintained by his wife Carol and grandson Jacob. .
Gus passed away peacefully in his home after a long and courageous battle with lung cancer. A private family service will be held in Gus's home country of Colombia at a date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in the name of Gustavo P. Aponte to Hospice of CNY or to SUNY Upstate Cancer Center