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Story summary
- Willie Colón, a salsa pioneer, trombonist, singer, and social activist, died on February 21, 2026, at age 75 from a respiratory illness.
- Funeral services will be held on March 9 at St. Patrick's Cathedral in Manhattan.
- Colón produced over 40 albums, sold more than 30 million copies, collaborated with Hector Lavoe and Celia Cruz, and served as a special assistant to New York City mayors while advocating for civil rights.
