CENTRAL FALLS, R.I.—A Colombian immigrant who pioneered the way for his compatriots to work in Rhode Island mills was remembered Thursday as a key figure in the state's Latino community and textile industry.
Pedro Cano, who was recruited in the 1960s to move to Rhode Island for work, died Saturday at age 92. Cano, known to relatives as "Papito," was the patriarch of a family that spanned five generations, including 32 grandchildren, 31 great grandchildren and a great-great grandson.
"He was very important to the Industrial Revolution here in Rhode Island," the Rev. John Sullivan said in Spanish.
Cano spent more than 70 years in the textile industry before retiring and was featured in a documentary called "Telares," his obituary said. He also is credited with recruiting other Colombians to work in mills throughout the Blackstone Valley. The city of Providence declared Aug. 19 to be Pedro M. Cano Day during the administration of former Mayor David Cicilline, according to his obituary.
Canola said her grandfather often said in Spanish: "Life is a struggle."
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