Family seeks assistance to repatriate deceased Loxahatchee man for burial in Guatemala.

Loxahatchee Man Mourns the Tragic Loss of His Brother, Efforts Underway to Transport Body to Guatemala

LAXAHATCHEE GROVES, Fla. – The heart-wrenching demise of 20-year-old Raymundo Santiago has left a Loxahatchee man, Simon Santiago, in profound grief as he endeavors to repatriate his brother’s body to their native Guatemala.

Raymundo’s lifeless body was discovered near his submerged vehicle in a canal on Friday, according to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office. Simon Santiago, Raymundo’s elder brother, recounts the pain and desperation he felt when his numerous attempts to contact Raymundo went unanswered. It was with a heavy heart that he received confirmation from authorities that the recovered car indeed belonged to his beloved brother. The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office continues to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.

In the midst of this devastating loss, Simon shares fond memories of his brother’s passions and interests. Raymundo was an avid soccer player and had an ardent love for music, particularly showcasing his talent on the guitar and lending his voice to church choir performances.

Simon states, “In reality, he’s all I have. We’re the only two in this country striving for a better life.” Symbolizing unity and family togetherness, Christmas held a special place in Raymundo’s heart. For the past four years, he had been employed at Lighting by Design, a holiday light company, exerting his skills in installing festive illuminations. John Noll, Raymundo’s employer and owner of Lighting by Design, commends his dedication and work ethic, emphasizing his eagerness to acquire knowledge and better himself within the industry. Raymundo was eagerly anticipating his upcoming 21st birthday in October so that he could contribute further by driving the company’s work vehicles.

When asked what he would miss most about Raymundo, an emotional Noll responded, “Just seeing his face, you know, seeing him at the morning meetings. That’s what I’ll miss the most.” Noll also highlights the immense distance between Raymundo and Simon’s Guatemalan hometown and the nearest airport—a grueling 13-hour drive. In light of this challenging situation, Noll hopes the community will offer financial assistance to facilitate Raymundo’s final journey home, where he can be laid to rest alongside his grieving family.

To support the Santiago family, a GoFundMe account has been established at [https://www.gofundme.com/f/raymundo-santiago?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unknown&utm_campaign=comms_pyj4+raymundo-santiago](https://www.gofundme.com/f/raymundo-santiago?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unknown&utm_campaign=comms_pyj4+raymundo-santiago). Simon expresses his heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support received thus far, underscoring that every contribution has made a significant difference during this trying time.

The untimely loss of Raymundo Santiago serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life. As the investigation into this tragic incident continues, the community stands together in collective mourning, honoring Raymundo’s memory and supporting his grieving family. May this heartbreaking occurrence inspire compassion and unity among individuals near and far.