Ferrer Canales was born in Santurce, Puerto Rico into a poor working-class family. He was able to attend school, despite the economic hardships his family faced. He received his elementary education at the Pedro G. Goyco Elementary School and his secondary instruction at Román Baldorioty de Castro School in San Juan. He attended and graduated from the Central Superior High School. The situation was very difficult for him because after school he had to work in order to help support his family.José Ferrer Canales
