Pabón-Péres remembered as professional wrestler on Puerto Rico in the 1960's and a Korean War Veteran before spending decades working with youths and senior citizens at the United Community Center in the Southside of Milwaukee.
By H. Nelson Goodson
Hispanic News Network U.S.A.
September 12, 2026
Milwaukee, Wisconsin - On Saturday, César Antonio Pabón-Péres, 98, passed away after spending decades in Milwaukee forging programs at the United Community Center (UCC) to help kids at risk and kept them off the streets. Pabón-Péres was well respected for his ability to help make the UCC a thriving multi-million community non-profit organization today, and worked at UCC for 35 years before retiring and then volunteered at UCC afterwards.
The fitness center at UCC was named after him. Pabón-Péres, who was an Army Sergeant also received the Congressional gold metal in 2016 by former President Barack Obama for his service in the Korean War with the Borinqueneers in the 65th Infantry Regiment from Puerto Rico.
After returning to Puerto Rico from the military, he went to college and later became a special education teacher. Pabón-Péres was then hired by the Milwaukee Christian Center to work with young people with behavioral problems, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
In the 1960's, Pabón-Péres was also a professional TV wrestler known as the Superman of Puerto Rico.
He managed the Spot at South 6 Street, which later moved to S. 9th Street and became the UCC. Where he later became the senior exercise instructor and weight room orientation instructor at UCC.
According to Julio Pabon, his son, "He was beloved by so many and did many inspirational things with his very long life. He was also known as the cofounder of the United Community Center. After the spot burnt down, he used a letter, signed by Richard Nixon to raise money that was used to purchase the old Church that became the gymnasium, which is now the theater space at UCC. Although he wasn’t the top decision maker at UCC, mainly because he wanted to be on the street level working directly with the community, he was instrumental in creating the culture that existed in that space. He had his arms opened to all and I carry that legacy with me as I teach in the elementary level. I’m grateful for all of his teachings."
Annette Rivera-Pili also says, "My Uncle Emilio Velez, who at the time was his best friend, and they both had a vision to be a part of the community and to help youngsters get off the streets and have a purpose. Unfortunately, my uncle could not see his dream become a reality because he passed away of leukemia at the age of 46 and Mr.Pabon made sure that he would go forward with this dream, which today is UCC that’s a very important part of the story thank you for sharing. In response to Julio Pabon, your father will never be forgotten!!"
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