By: Tracie Carter
Luis Cano, a longtime Linden resident who was recognized as the oldest living man in the United States, has died at the age of 111.
City officials announced that Cano passed away peacefully at his residence on June 15, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that spanned more than a century and touched generations of family members, friends, and community residents.
Born on December 9, 1914, in Antioquia, Colombia, Cano served as a marksman in the Colombian Army before later working as an intermunicipal bus driver.
He married his late wife, Alicia Arango, in 1948, and together they shared 56 years of marriage while raising 10 children.
His family has since grown to include 11 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.
After immigrating to the United States 35 years ago, Cano became a U.S. citizen in 2004 and spent the past 20 years living in Linden, where he became a well-known and respected member of the community.
His milestone 111th birthday was celebrated in December with a vehicle procession and city proclamation led by Mayor Derek Armstead and members of the Linden Police Department.
Earlier this year, Cano’s longevity was formally recognized when officials from LongeviQuest presented him with a trophy commemorating his status as the nation’s oldest living man. In March, Linden also welcomed Germán Alexander Vélez Orozco, Mayor of Andes, Colombia, who visited the city to honor Cano’s extraordinary life and accomplishments.
Mayor Armstead said Cano’s life was marked by faith, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to family, adding that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
A public viewing is scheduled for Saturday, June 20, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Leonard & Smith Funeral and Cremation Services, 301 E. Blancke Street in Linden.