On Wednesday, January 25, 2023, Marcelo concluded his journey on Earth. He returned to freedom and was welcomed (we are sure) by a large cast of friends who inspired, from the spirit realm, his travails in the body.

Marcelo was born in Sao Paulo, Brazil, in 1949, and emigrated to the United States with his parents and four siblings in 1970. He was a polio survivor who worked hard to beat the odds by earning a college degree in Economics and becoming a certified IT professional. Using his love of languages and volunteering, he later served as interpreter for Brazilian immigrants in the Philadelphia area.

For the Spiritist Community in the United States, he will be remembered for his incredible effort to advance the publication of Allan Kardec’s books as a member of  AKES’ (Allan Kardec Educational Society) team of translators and reviewers. Marcelo had a special pride for being the organizer of the first lecture series by Divaldo Franco in the United States, in 1983, at the Free Library of Philadelphia. He later translated the beloved spiritist book, “Violets on the Window (English Version, Petit Editora, 2005).”

He touched the life of hundreds of people and was the embodiment of patience with himself (as he used to say) and others who shared his life as colleagues, friends, and family. Marcelo loved to read,  had a great sense of humor, loved to watch cartoons and play board games with his nephews growing up, loved food and defended that the right ‘latte’ was 80% milk and 20% coffee.

Marcelo’s journey was defined by his incredible bond with his mother, Da. Luzia, and his siblings, Leonardo, Jose, Maria, and Luzia, and his wonderful relationship with his nephews and nieces. We, those who miss him, will continue our journey with the certainty that we will be together again in the same spirit of camaraderie and service.

A celebration of life is being planned. For sharing your thoughts and wishes you may email Maria Hanna at ju_hanna@yahoo.com.