With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Nelson Reyes-Falero. Nelson passed away on June 26, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada - a city he truly loved and proudly called home. Nelson was called home by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, at the age of 69, to reunite with his beloved mother, Ramona; his father, Genero; and his best friend, Hector.

Born on May 24, 1957, in Caguas, Puerto Rico, Nelson lived a life defined by strength, service, adventure, laughter, and unconditional love. He proudly served his country in the United States Army, carrying with him a deep sense of honor, discipline, and commitment that remained with him throughout his life.

A devoted martial artist, Nelson believed that true strength came not only from learning how to defend yourself, but from having the confidence and character to protect others. Throughout the years, while supporting his wife's military career in the United States Air Force, he taught martial arts around the world, sharing his knowledge, discipline, and passion with students of all ages. No matter where life took their family, Nelson built community through teaching and mentorship. He later continued that calling by teaching martial arts and self-defense to children in his community, helping countless young people gain confidence, resilience, respect, and courage. His influence reached far beyond the dojo, and the lessons he taught will continue to live on through the many lives he touched.

Those who knew Nelson knew there was never anyone quite like him. He had a wild, one-of-a-kind sense of humor that could catch you completely off guard and leave everyone laughing. His personality was unforgettable, and he had a remarkable gift for bringing joy to those around him.

Outside of teaching and service, Nelson found happiness in music. He loved listening to salsa and took great pride in collecting music. Whether filling a room with rhythm or sharing a favorite song, music was one of the many ways he connected with the people he loved.

To his beloved wife, he was affectionately known as "Pollo," a nickname spoken with love that reflected the special bond they shared and the life they built together.

Above all else, Nelson was a devoted family man-a loving father and husband, a hilarious uncle, and a handsome brother.

He is survived by his daughters, Lynnel and Monika, and by his cherished grandchildren, Ailani, Kainoa, and Scarlett, who brought immeasurable joy to his life. To them, he was lovingly known as "Lito," a name that will forever hold a special place in their hearts. Though words cannot measure the depth of their loss, they will forever carry with them his strength, resilience, laughter, and unwavering love.

Nelson's legacy lives on in every child he empowered, every student he mentored, every friend he made laugh, and every life he touched through his service, generosity, and kind heart.

To so many, he was a soldier, a martial artist, a teacher, and a friend. To his daughters, he was simply Dad. To his grandchildren, he was always Lito. To his beloved wife, he was forever her Pollo.

Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing that the measure of Nelson's life was not found only in the years he lived, but in the countless lives he strengthened, the laughter he shared, and the love he gave so freely. His strength will continue to guide us, his laughter will echo in our memories, and his love will forever remain in our hearts.

If you would like to honor Nelson's memory, put on some salsa music-especially Hector Lavoe and Willie Colón-watch a Dallas Cowboys game, enjoy a boxing match, and remember to laugh often. Those simple joys were some of the things that made him happiest.

And if Nelson could leave us with one final message, it would be this:

"It ain't about how hard you hit. It's about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward; how much you can take and keep moving forward. That's how winning is done."- Rocky Balboa

As we celebrate Nelson's life and the faith that sustained him, we hold close these words of Scripture:

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness..."2 Timothy 4:7-8

He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.