Emanuel "Max" Orabona

Emanuel "Max" Orabona, 85, passed away on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at his daughter, Michelle Pracht’s, home in Grove, Oklahoma. Born on December 13, 1939, to Miguel and Maria Cristina Orabona in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Max led a vibrant and multifaceted life. Max moved from Puerto Rico to New York, where he attended Jefferson High School in Brooklyn, NY. At the young age of 9, he helped earn money for his family by taking on a variety of jobs, like running errands for the neighbors, working at his brother’s Dry Cleaners, and a range of positions in the restaurant industry. Demonstrating a spirit of adventure and patriotism, he enlisted in the Navy at just 16 years old, a decision that showcased his bravery and his commitment to serving his country. Upon returning to New York from his time in service, Max married Eda Alamo on April 25, 1958. Eda preceded him in death following a battle with cancer in 1996. Following his military service, Max’s career is marked by his work as a commercial window washer in New York and California. He was a proud member of the International Window Cleaning Association. Max also ventured into entrepreneurship, owning a pizza restaurant that became a local favorite in San Gabriel. He also explored creative manufacturing, making car dashboard covers, as well as inventing and patenting a variety of products. His artistic side was further displayed in his acting career. Max was a proud member of the Screen Actors Guild since 1963 and appeared in various TV shows, commercials, and theater productions. Beyond his professional life, Max was deeply devoted to his personal passions. He was a natural athlete, and instilled a lifelong love of sports in his children and grandchildren. Max spent time coaching his kids’ and grandkids’ sports teams, from Little League to football, softball to basketball. He was a respected coach who left a lasting impression on his players. Max also had a talent for the visual arts starting at a young age. Throughout his life he created countless paintings, often sending them to friends and family. He was also a passionate singer. Whether he was entertaining a group of loved ones, or just cooking in the kitchen, he was often singing. He passed down a love for the arts and music across the branches of his family tree. Family was the cornerstone of his life, particularly his grandchildren, who were his greatest joy. He visited his grandchildren’s schools and was invited to speak in their classrooms. He was a kind neighbor and a generous member of his community. Known for his charismatic and humorous nature, he was a born storyteller and a natural giver. Local community members like nurses and bank tellers knew Max as someone who brought them gift bags and chocolates on special occasions. He spent time as a volunteer coaching sports, and enjoyed hosting parties with his neighbors. His legacy is carried on by the many lives he touched and the vibrant stories he shared. Max's life was a testament to the power of integrating one's passions with their everyday existence, making every moment count. Born one of nine siblings, Max is preceded in death by his seven older siblings, his parents, daughter, Christine Hernandez, son, Dismas Orabona, and grandson Matthew Orabona and longtime friend from California, Lou. Left to cherish his memory are his daughters, Eda “Terry” Orabona (Carrie), and Michelle Pracht (Jim). Along with his sister, Antoinia Orabona, grandchildren, Michael Hernandez III, Christopher Hernandez (Brandy), Nicole Orabona, Ryan Orabona (Erin), Taylor Elliott (Matthew), Morgan Engle (Will) and Brendan Patterson, and his bonus granddaughters, Katilyn Martinez (Jesus) and Kelsey Astle (William). He is remembered by his great grandchildren; Kody Hernandez, Nikki Hernandez, Silas Hernandez, Richard Hernandez, Jaylen Hernandez, Emmett Hernandez, Dismas Hernandez, Wyatt Hernandez, Ryan Orabona Jr, Dominic Engle, Mattie Orabona, Ruby Engle, Lillian Astle and Michael Hernandez, IV. Max will be laid to rest in Rose Hill Cemetery in Whittier, CA.

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Emanuel "Max" Orabona

December 13, 1939 - May 13, 2025