Roberto Lira Penafiel, 86, a long-time resident of Saratoga Springs and Pawling, passed away Thursday, February 4, 2016 in Danbury, CT after a short illness.
Born on December 26, 1929 in Santiago, Chile, he was the son of the late Roberto Lira Osa and Elena Penafiel Gunderlach.
He is survived by a sister, Maria Angelica Lira Penafiel of Santiago, Chile, as well asshort illness many nieces, nephews, and friends. In addition to his parents, he is also predeceased by his lovely wife of over twenty years, Mary Parke Lira, and a sister, Elena Lira Penafiel.
Roberto’s love of the thoroughbred horse brought him to the United States in 1973, and he managed Tilly Foster Farm, owned by Mr. and Mrs. Edward E. Benedict.
He was an avid handicapper, a talented soccer player, and loved to watch his family play polo professionally in Santiago.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Horn & Thomes, Inc. Funeral Home, 83 East Main Street, Pawling, NY.
To leave an online condolence, please visit www.hornandthomesfunerlhome.com.
