Hector Barreto Sr., 68; a Founder of Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Hector V. Barreto Sr., 68, a founder and former president of the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, died May 14 in his hometown of Guadalajara, Mexico, the chamber announced. Barreto had been in failing health for some time, but the cause of death was not announced.

Barreto immigrated to the United States when he was in his early 20s and landed in Kansas City, Mo. His first job was digging potatoes. He later worked in a packinghouse and as a school custodian before saving enough money to open a small cafe. He eventually owned three restaurants, a tile company and a construction firm in Kansas City.

With other Latino businessmen, he founded the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in 1979. Originally based in Kansas City, the organization is now headquartered in Washington, D.C. The goal of the organization is to bring the issues and concerns of the nation’s Latino-owned businesses to the forefront of the national economic agenda.

In the 1980s, Barreto became involved in Republican Party politics and worked for President Reagan’s transition team. He was also a supporter of President George H.W. Bush. Barreto’s son, Hector Barreto Jr., delivered a speech at the Republican National Convention that nominated then Texas Gov. George W. Bush for president. Hector Barreto Jr. is head of the Small Business Administration.