Jesus Nazareno Pernas-Giz
Born July 6, 1946 in Havana, CubaPassed October 10, 2024 in Melbourne, Florida
Jesus Nazareno Pernas-Giz passed away on October 10, 2024 in Melbourne, Florida.
Born in Havana, Cuba in 1946, Jesus was sent to the United States by his family in 1962. Through Catholic Charities, Jesus was welcomed into the Allen family, finding a second home with Kenneth and Mary Allen on June 12, 1962. His brother, Tony, joined him in 1963. Jesus became a lifelong resident of Melbourne, embracing his new life and home wholeheartedly. Jesus earned his United States citizenship, served in the Armed Forces, and worked as a Labor Relations Specialist at Patrick Air Force Base.
Melbourne is also where Jesus met his wife of 55 years, Leslie Kettenbach, when they were co-workers at Publix Super Market. Leslie and Jesus were married in 1968. Though separated from his biological family at such a young age, Jesus was a beloved member of the Allen and Kettenbach families for his entire life. He was surrounded by love and laughter.
Anyone who knew Jesus will forever remember his gorgeous smile, quick wit, firm opinions, giving nature, and enormous appetite. Jesus loved the Florida outdoors and spent many years biking and kayaking with Charlie Klaproth, and birdwatching and hiking with Leslie. Jesus and Leslie proudly created a yard “for the birds,” spending every day tending to their native plants and counting the many bird species that visited. Jesus also had great affection for his neighbors and the community they built on their street. The only thing that could get him running indoors was a call from his grandsons.
Jesus is survived by his wife Leslie (Kettenbach); daughter Elena; son-in-law Matt; grandsons Leo and Miles; his brother Jorge Pernas; nieces Debra Philips and Becky Cosentino, and their families; the Allen family: Ken, Mary, Laura, David, Julie, Charlie, Michael and their families; and the Kettenbach family: Mary Gayle, Ginny, Lori and their families.
Jesus is predeceased by his brother Tony, and his parents Jesus Pernas-Vasquez and Concepcion Giz-Benito.
In keeping with Jesus’ wishes, no public services are planned. Donations may be made in his honor to Florida Wildlife Hospital 4560 US-1, Melbourne, FL 32935:
Florida Wildlife Hospital