Wilfredo Padilla

Wilfredo Padilla, 73, of Reading, died Friday, March, 1, 2024, at the Reading Hospital.

Raised in San Sebastián, Puerto Rico, he was the son of the late Lydia Quiles and the late Antonio Padilla.

Legendary among his loved ones and acquaintances as a professional driver, he dedicated years of his career to serving the Miller-Keystone Blood Center in Essex County, NJ. In this role, he played a crucial part in delivering life-saving donations to patients in need, ensuring their well-being and survival.

In his later years, Wilfredo found pleasure in visiting the casino to try his luck and showcasing his skills at the many casino games. A self-taught and proficient handyman and electrician, he possessed the ability to repair any broken item with ease. As a father, he modeled the importance of being a lifelong learner, constantly reading and seeking new thoughts and ideas. Known for his reliability, Wilfredo was a supportive friend who never hesitated to lend a helping hand or offer rides to those with limited transportation.

His vibrant personality and zest for life were reflected in his passion for music, dancing, and friendly demeanor. Wilfredo was also a jokester and a know-it-all, loved playing his guitar, writing short ballads in Spanish, and had a good eye for photographs of nature, and had many pictures of such. He searched for hidden treasures and often found unique items others might overlook. Wilfredo greatly enjoyed preparing traditional Puerto Rican cuisine and was proud to share Papa-licious food with others.

As a true family man, he affectionately bestowed fitting nicknames upon his children and grandchildren, highlighting their unique qualities and endearing traits. He often referred to himself as Wilfredo the Great (El Grande), proud, vocal, and eager to share his new discoveries.

He is survived by five children: Madalyn L. Torres, Lillian Ortiz, Damaris Padilla, Kelly A. Padilla, and Wilfredo Padilla, Jr.; and six siblings: Ana Padilla, Norma Padilla, Elba Martinez, Evelyn Casanova, Norberto "Tito" Sanchez, and Rosalie A. Duprey. He is also survived by eight grandchildren: Joseph Torres, Jazlyn Hernandez, Ramon Hernandez, III, Amanda Torres, Justin Nuñez, Lyannie Hernandez, Nathan Graeff, and Jionni Martinez; one great-granddaughter, Malia Esquivel; and his former spouse, Tereza Padilla.

Wilfredo was predeceased by two brothers, Miguel Padilla, and Edwin "Papo" Padilla.

A Celebration of Life will be Sunday, March 10, 2024, from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home, Inc., 739 Penn Ave., West Reading. Burial will be private. Online condolences may be recorded at www.kuhnfuneralhomes.com.