Obituary
Daniel A. Ugarte, a beacon of love and strength, passed away on May 2, 2024, at the age of 51 after bravely battling cancer for over two and a half years.
Born on May 24, 1972, in Hialeah, Florida, Daniel was surrounded by the love of his parents, Doctor Thomas Robert Ugarte and Sharon Ugarte, and his three siblings, Denise, Deborah, and Driscoll.
Daniel attended Miami Country Day School, he not only excelled academically but also found his passion for soccer. It was during this time playing soccer that Daniel forged many lifelong friendships, sharing the camaraderie and competitive spirit of the game with peers. Among his closest friends from childhood were Adam, Mike, Wayne, Josh, and Kunal. Despite attending different schools, their bond was unbreakable, and they remained Daniel's closest companions throughout his life, calling each other brothers. Indeed, throughout Daniel’s battle with cancer, these friendships became the cornerstone of Daniel’s support system offering unwavering support, love, and companionship.
Each day, since Daniel found joy in his work at Amerant Bank, where he started as a branch teller at a young age. His dedication and hard work were evident as he steadily climbed the corporate ladder, moving up to several other positions within the bank. However, it was in his role as Head of Credit that Daniel truly found his calling. Daniel’s leadership style was characterized by integrity, fairness, compassion, and a genuine concern for the well-being of both his team members and the clients they served. Through his exceptional leadership skills and unwavering commitment to excellence, Daniel rose to the prestigious position of Executive Vice President of Amerant Bank.
The highlight of Daniel’s professional life was not just the success he achieved, but the amazing friendships and relationships he formed along the way, way too many to mention. He was surrounded by an amazing credit team who shared his passion for excellence and dedication to serving others. Throughout his courageous battle for his life, Daniel was supported not only by his dedicated team but also by Senior Management who stood by his side offering unwavering support, understanding, and the flexibility as he navigated through the challenges of his illness.
Daniel’s journey led him to Lazara (Cookie) Vilches, his wife, and the love of his life, with whom he shared 25 years of companionship and devotion, celebrating 15 beautiful years of marriage on April 25, 2024, unlike any other, spent in the confines of a hospital ER room. In that moment, surrounded by medical equipment and uncertainty, their bond only grew stronger, a testament to the depth of their love and commitment to each other. Their love story began in the corridors of their workplace, where they forged a bond so strong it earned them the endearing title of "the power couple" among their closest friends.
Each day, they embarked on their journey together, driving side by side to and from work, and sharing cherished moments over daily lunches. Their connection transcended mere partnership: they were soulmates, united in love, respect, and mutual admiration. Daniel embraced his role as a father through his boundless love and dedication to Michael and Ashley. He cared for them, enjoyed every precious moment, and treasured each stage of their lives. His love knew no bounds, and his presence was a constant source of guidance, support, and unwavering affection.
A new chapter of joy entered their lives five years ago with the arrival of their granddaughter, Luna. She became Daniel’s ray of light during the darkest moments of his battle with cancer. Her infectious laughter and boundless energy brought immeasurable joy and comfort, infusing their home with warmth and love.
In addition to his devotion to family and friends, Daniel had a passion for outdoor activities. He found solace in fishing, spent weekends on the golf course perfecting his swing, and never missed a chance to cheer for his favorite football teams, including the Kansas City Chiefs, the Miami Dolphins, and the University of Florida’s Gators, his alma Mater. A fearless fan, Daniel’s spirit lit up the stadium, and his loyalty to the team knew no bounds.
But above all, Daniel loved and enjoyed life to the fullest. Even in the face of adversity, with each chemotherapy treatment's devastating side effects, there was never a complaint from him. Instead, it was a sign of the possibility of one more day of life, one more moment to cherish, and one more opportunity to spread joy, compassion, and love.
Daniel’s legacy is carried on by his loving wife, Lazara (cookie), his two children through marriage, Michael (Jessica), and Ashley; and his adored granddaughter, Luna. He is also survived by his mother, Sharon, his two sisters, Denise, and Deborah; his brother, Driscoll; and his four favorite nieces, Sophia, Savannah, Khloe, and Keyla. Daniel was preceded in death by his father, Doctor Thomas.
As his heartbeat faded, mine paused, forever bound in an unbreakable bond. Though he took my heart with him, I vow to carry on, fulfilling our promises and nurturing his legacy until we reunite once more. In his absence, I stand as the pillar of our family, striving to find strength amidst my broken heart. I’ll do my best to carry us forward, holding his memory close as I navigate the journey ahead.
I LOVE YOU WITH MY ALL. I’LL MISS YOU DEARLY. REST IN PEACE, MY LOVE.