Israel Hernandez Aponte

In loving memory of Israel Aponte (77), born on March 15, 1946, in Pedro Avila, Puerto Rico, to the late Cruz Aponte and Elisa Aponte (Hernández).  On Saturday, January 13, 2024, our beloved Israel departed, reuniting with his beloved wife, Jane Aponte (Pérez), and siblings (Augustin, Roman, and Luisa Reyes).  His essence and spirit live on through his children (Israel, Elisa, and Daniel), grandchildren (Alfonso, Jose, Janice, Andres, and Daniel), and many others - as his fatherly love had no bounds.

For over 45 years, Israel and his wife proudly owned and operated one of the last local pet shops, Village Tropical Fish, located in downtown Jersey City.  The pet shop served as more than just a business; it was a hub of shared experiences, where family members and friends found not only jobs but also cultivated their entrepreneurial appetite.  Israel's commitment to the pet shop went beyond mere ownership - it was a testament to his dedication to fostering growth and providing opportunities for those around him.  His dedication to his family, friends, and animals will forever be a testimony of his strength, resilience and unwavering love.

Israel found joy in the simple pleasures of waking up early to go fishing with his family.  He enjoyed passing on his knowledge to the younger generation so that they, too, could experience the beauty of these moments.  As an avid bowler, Israel was an integral part of his local teams throughout the years, where he shared his skills and enthusiasm with fellow teammates.  His love for bowling and fishing went beyond a mere hobby; it was a vocation that brought him immense joy and fulfillment.

Israel's impact extended beyond his personal pursuits.  He touched the lives of those around him, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, kindness, and shared experiences.  May his spirit live on in the memories of the family - especially his loving siblings surviving him (María, Mercedes, Ismael, Ernesto, Roberto, and Ilda) and friends who were fortunate enough to know and love him.

A viewing will be held at Michalski Funeral Home, located at 463 Monmouth St., Jersey City, NJ 07302, on Sunday, January 21, 2024, between 1:00 - 5:00 PM.  Mass will be held at Holy Rosary Church located at 344 Sixth Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302, at 10:30 AM and a burial at 12:30 PM at Arlington Cemetery located at 748 Schuyler Ave., Kearny, NJ 07032.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Alzheimer's New Jersey.

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