Governor decrees 2 days of mourning for ‘El Maestro’ of salsa Rafael Ithier
- The San Juan Daily Star
- 1 hour ago
- 1 min read
By THE STAR STAFF
Gov. Jenniffer González Colón has decreed Sunday, Dec. 14 and Monday, Dec. 15 as days of mourning for the death of Rafael Ithier Natal, founder of El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico.
The order, which the governor announced Wednesday evening, stipulates that flags at all public facilities must fly at half-mast for both days, including Monday, when the funeral services announced by the family of Ithier Natal will be held, according to the information provided.
The governor had previously indicated that she would wait for the official announcement of the funeral services before issuing the declaration of mourning, due to the national recognition that the musician’s career represents, as he was recently inducted into the Puerto Rican Veterans Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2025.
The governor once again expressed her condolences on behalf of the people of Puerto Rico to the family and loved ones of the esteemed salsero.
Ithier Natal, who founded the famed orchestra in 1962 and is recognized as a key figure in the growth of salsa music internationally, passed away last Saturday at the age of 99 at his residence, surrounded by his relatives, according to reports.