We gathered to remember you, Joe. United through Christ. ❤️🙏

We thank the Father for you, Joe. We will all see and join you soon in your realm. We can only imagine what that reality is. Love.

In remembrance, Joe! Your love endures in all of us, your family.

I was a student of his back in 2015-2017 either between those times and all I can remember is how he used to smile a lot and have his guitar around! He once said in collage he and his friends made an igloo and he was still hot inside it, he always had a rag to wipe his sweat. He sung Bruno mars “count on me” and “best day of my life” with my class!! I will always remember him! He was the best and I hope one day to see him again.

he was my kindergarten teacher yes i know im young but i really want to say how much of a good teacher he was and always will be i remember when he played his ukulele for us or how he had a point system he was always making sure we knew what to do he cared for all of us im sure he loved us all he told us many stories i remember he once i told us he slept for two days straight my memory might not be that good but i remember his face his smile his kind smile that kept all of us motivated i remember inviting him to my baptisim my mom never had time until barley kindergarten i remember how he showed us the song  'carpenters" as a matter of fact im playing it on loop right now to remind me of him he will always e rememberd and never t be forgotten i rememberd i was in the middle of class when one of my classmates from here told me about his passing i was heartbroken but i couldnt do anything since i as in class i wish i could go back in time to hug him for the last time and say goodbye me and my mother where sad when i told her i wish i could hear his ukulele skills one more time but e can never go back in time so for now i just have to think about good memories i can remember i had him for 2017 i belive i would remember going to my mom after school and telling her o much i enjoyed my day because of him. fly high mr.o gone but never forgotten-daisy manzo a former nathen davis student 

I would like to give my condolences to the loved ones of Mr. Ongtengco. It was a great honor working with Mr. Ongtengco. He was a great teacher who had compassion and love for his students. He always had his door open and was willing to meet to discuss how students could be further supported. He is greatly missed by his students and all of us at Davis. 

Mr. O was a wonderful teacher, so patient and kind. Truly passionate about what he did. My daughter and I were deepest saddened when we heard of his passing. We send our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.  

Joseph Ongtengco was a beautiful soul.  He was humble, patient and kind.  He asked for nothing but gave so much in return.  His greatest strength was his ability to create a nurturing, and inviting classroom that said: “I care”.  Joe was a constant for his students and they could count on him showing up for them EVERY DAY! His ability to connect with students has left a lasting impression on me.  I remember how much his kindergarten class loved him playing the ukulele for them; how much his fourth-graders enjoyed readers’ theater; and how much his 8th graders enjoyed running for student council.  Joe knew the secret to enriching students’ lives.  The things that he lived for and valued were relationships; his family, his music and being a teacher!  Thank you for leaving a lasting impression at Nathan S. Davis School!   Your presence, love, and kindness will forever remain with us.  Rest in Peace.

I met Joe while playing futbol together at Kenwood Academy high school. Although I was closer to James, I did frequent the Ellis home often and was amazed how they fit so many people upstairs, lol. The Ongtengco family was always welcoming and I remember music, food and good times. Joe was definitely the quieter of the bunch and I remember his love for music. In college his band with Tom and Marc played at my fraternity pledge party with him singing and playing the guitar. I can't ever recall a time seeing Joe being angry as he was such an easy going guy. It was obvious he loved his students very much and enjoyed giving back by teaching. Till we meet again.   

Mr. O was the most amazing teacher in the world. I know some of you are asking yourselves , you were 7/8 years old how can you possibly remember him? The real question is how can I not? You want to know why? Because he truly made an impact in my life and I know In the lives of many other kids. He made learning fun, he made me feel like I could do anything and everything I set my mind to, the sky was limitless having him as a teacher! He use to come to class and play us songs on his guitar, he would hold spelling bee competitions and man do I remember getting many little trophies from those lol he had a goofy point system! Anytime we’d get a good grade or did a good deed he had these dollar looking pieces of paper legit looked like a dollar bill with the character goofy on them, and at the end of the week he’d bust out with his little store and we could redeem them. Man we were some lucky kids!!!!! Mr. O gave me hope, laughter, lots and lots of knowledge, and that amazing teacher -student love/care/ support. That’s why even as a 33 year old grown woman I sit here with tears in my eyes as if I was that 7/8 year old sitting in his classroom today.  Mr. O, thank you. Thank you truly from the bottom of my heart for having been such an amazing educator, but most importantly for being such a great person with such a great big loving heart. You were my teacher 24/25 years ago but I always remembered you and always will. My only hope is that you lived a truly happy and fulfilling life, which I can only hope that was the case, and I also hope that other educators out there see the great impact that teachers like you have on students like me. Thank you for loving your job that way you did and for loving us , your students, as if we were your own. May you Rest In Peace and I’ll see you on the other side. P.S i left the goofy point in your hands tonight, it’s your turn to redeem it. ❤️ My deepest condolences to all Mr.Os family and loved ones. My prayers are with you all.

Our sympathy to Rafael, Pacita, Anna and family. We have fond memories of talking with Joe after Sunday Mass at Christ the Servant Parish. He was obviously dedicated to his teaching and loved his students. 
In thanksgiving for Joe's witness of compassion and with love and prayers for him and his family,
Sister Lois Prebil
Sister Jane Nienaber 

I worked with Mr. O for 22 years, there was times we taught the same grade level and got to work closely. Always a treat to work with Mr. O. I have nothing but good things to say good things of him as a co- worker and an amazing teacher. My last encounter with Mr. Was this past June when I was testing students that were remote and were coming to test in person.He came to the computer lab to meet one of his students he was teaching remote. The students’ eyes open widely and yelled Mr. O!!
That tells you how much he was loved from everyone and how he cared for his students. He will be greatly missed😞. 
P.S students enjoyed when he played the guitar to them🎸.

I have fond memories of Joe visiting our home when I was young and being the first person to show me a guitar and how to play it, which fueled in me, a love for playing music. My heart goes out to the whole family and the friends who love him dearly. Prayers and virtual hugs being sent your way from the whole Brantner family.

Mr. O was not personally my teacher, but I remember vividly in 1st and 2nd grade Ms. Pustelnik and his class always doing activities together. We would go over to his class or vice versa. He was one teacher that was passionate about helping his students and you can tell. Another teacher that has truly paved the way for me to follow my dreams on becoming a teacher. He was a great man, who truly loved teaching, music, and family. May he Rest In Peace.

Best teacher i've ever had (1st & 2nd grade / 1997/98). Mr. O. inspired my lust for knowledge at a pivotal age. I was engaged since day one. Spelling tests to Spelling Bees. Science Projects to Science Fairs. Goofy Points!!!
RIP THE GOAT
Thank You
-Omar B. Class of 2004 at Nathan Davis Elementary

We both have fond memories of Joe that we treasure. He was an integral part of our Gen lives, and a friend forever! He made a lasting impression on us and we'll miss his presence on this side of the world dearly. Our hearts go out to the Ongtengco Family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. 

I had the great fortune of knowing Joe through Focolare activities. We attended meetings in New York brought great times, fun, and new adventures. Joe was very generous, the guy with the smile. He went out of his way to be kind to others and live out his gospel values. Conversations ran deep as he gave great attention to me or whoever he was talking to. 
I pray that Joe may be in heaven with God whom he truly loved, and for strength for the family. 
Mike

My Condolences to Joe's wonderful family .  He was a special person and I am grateful to have known him .                                             ...Sending  my unity and prayers in a special way to Pacita and Rafael. Jady

I feel very sad and heartbroken to hear that Mr.Ontengco has passed away.I used to be one of his temporary students during 7th grade before it was time to switch to my homeroom to head home.I will never forget that Mr.Ontengco was a very great teacher and a very great friend.I share my condulgences to the Ontengco Family for these tragic news.I am very devastated that Mr.Ontengco has passed away.May God protect him as we all bid him farewell to his eternal rest.

Sincerely,
Erick Arroyo 

Dear Ongtengco Family,

How many wonderful memories of Joe!  His smile, his welcoming arms, his big heart, his generosity, his love for fun and music and good food.  I have spent unforgettable evenings with you all, with Joe playing and singing old time songs we all loved, and sharing beautiful memories.  We will miss him so much!  But we also know that we have a special friend in heaven.  

Count on my prayers!

Paloma 

Hi Joe! It was a shock to hear this news! I still remember very well that  31 years ago you were the first guy I met in USA when I spent that summer of 1990 between Luminosa and Chicago with the other gen! You were sick with the chickenpox but still smiling and joking around without everybody! I’ll miss you man a lot! I hoped to see you again in this life but I’ll meet you there … with all the guys in the heaven Mariápolis. A big hug bro! Ciao

I remember Mr. O being  Ms. Pustelniks best friend. Our classes used to be pen pals, i will never forget seeing Mr. O dressed as fred flintstone every halloween and greeting us with a huge smile Always, Mr. O you will be missed. 

Mr. O will be missed at Davis School. He always greeted all with a smile and kind words. He was a nice and gentle person. Blessings of strength to his family.

Sincerely,
Barbara D.

I knew Joe during my years of focolare in Chicago. He was a marian soul, loving in the background, and I enjoyed the times we would go to the Ongtengco home where we would just have a musical jam evening. Joe played the guitar and keyboard with so much talent, and it was really fun being together. I can imagine him doing just the same, and maybe even more, up there in heaven. Thank you, Joe!  May God grant you eternal joy and peace in Paradise! 
Prayers and thanks from Mariapolis Luminosa (Hyde Park, NY)

I will miss you Joe, dear friend.
I was living in Chicago for seven years from 2011 till 2018 and had many occasions to visit with you and to listen to your stories, admire your wits and appreciate your wisdom.
I remember one evening I had in mind to bounce off some ideas and I needed you to be my sounding board. However, I had been thinking too long hence, before I knew it, it was already 11 o'clock at night. I checked the messaging service on my phone, search for your icon: Bingo! You were still awake (or perhaps already awake?). I called you forthwith, share my thoughts, got some priceless feedback. But I am curious so I asked, "Joe, did I wake you up?" .  You simply replied. "No I was awake, I was strumming my guitar preparing a lesson for my students. My most successful songs and music are born between midnight and three in the morning!"     I was floored and I was in awe. I know now that you  worked for your pupils tirelessly  and, quite literally, day and night! You are watching them (and all of us) from up there. Farewell Joe, until we meet again.  Be well, (you are WELL now) my dear friend....   ----------
 Giampi  S.

I didn’t know Joe, but I know his beloved sister, Rose Belcher.  She lives in CT where I live.  Our families know one another and we are close friends.  Rose has expressed the simplicity of Joe and the wisdom and peace that he shared with her and his family.   He was a teacher.  A loving,  kind and caring individual.  Musical as well.  I too work with children and know it takes a special person to make it their life’s work. Bless brother Joe... for being the human he was and for touching the world as he did.  He will be lovingly missed.   With heartfelt condolences, I wish the entire family comfort and peace at this difficult time 
Karen Figueroa , Stamford , CT 

Mr. "O"  as we and the students used to call him at Nathan S Davis School, was a wonderful, quiet man who dedicated his life to teaching.
 He was loved by all his students, and it is with deep respect that  I will always remember him guiding his students and inspiring them to always do their best!!
God bless his family and may he rest in peace!!!

See you later Mr. "O"!!:)

Lumi D

Dear Joe, you will live forever in our hearts!!
I will  always treasure the beautiful and unforgetable moments we spent together as a family- your family and the focolare, as one, during my 14 yrs in Chicago!!
Another star is shining now upthere in Heaven!!
Sending my love and prayers from Portugal to the entire family!!
Lieta Barros - Focolare Center - Porto- Portugal

The one thing that I will remember about Joe is his smile, he was able to create an atmosphere of family with his humble presence. Thank you Joe for your life! 

I will miss you deeply, Joe. The cousin I always wanted and needed  to be around growing up and visiting Hyde Park in the summers - weeks at a time. 

You humored your little cousin, letting her tag around with you wherever you went. I’d wait in the evening…falling asleep waiting for you and Tom to finish your jam session in the garage of the S. Ellis house as you promised to take me with you to Harold’s Chicken Shack for a late night treat! 

I will miss all of us piling onto one ski and building snow caves…or watching and cowering in the corner while you lit up bottle rockets during July 4th get togethers.

Then, at the Washtenaw house, all those times walking the dog around the block, times smoking cigars in the backyard  (okay, I watched!) and helping you grade papers….

It was so fun chatting a few months ago on FB meetup (or whatever it’s called) and talking until the wee hours of the morning! I will miss all of this….

We are praying for you Joe-lo-tengo, and although we are broken-hearted we are happy for your reunion with Marcy, and all of our loved ones who have gone before us ❤️. We will see you again!

Growing up in Michigan, my family very much looked forward to driving to Chicago and visit with relatives. We were blessed to be close to our cousins and to have strong bonds with them. It was important to Lolo Belo, our parents, uncles and aunties. So it was important to us. Winter or summer we would take turns visiting with them. There would always be laughter, food, and music. Joe was the quietest of the five. Mary Anne and James were the most boisterous. Joe usually played the guitar or whatever he was asked to do. He preferred to stay in the background and provide the supportive role, never seeking the limelight. One could immediately appreciate his humble servant heart. He was a giver. And he gave with little fanfare or accolade. He had a great love for his family and friends. He deeply cared about people. Like Jesus, he loved teaching and giving of himself to the benefit of others.  I never heard him demean anyone, get out of control, or say anything unkind. A quiet intellect. A humble, selfless disciple of Christ. The COVID had affected millions. I know it probably affected Joe as it did many of us pushing us to turn inward and becoming isolated or preventing so many of us from getting the health maintenance checkups that we needed. I know many of my patients with depression worsened during the pandemic.  I wished that Joe might have been less reclusive or was able to avail himself to the auspices of a physician. Joe was always kind to me, my brother, and sisters. He was always respectful to my parents. Such a beautiful soul, a faithful follower of Christ. I will miss his quiet humility, his warm smile, his contented and unassuming demeanor. I am envious of you, Joe, for the joy and ecstasy  of seeing God’s face and being by his side, of being with all of our beloved departed, of your new body, your new realm of existence. Peace, love, and grace, cuz.  Continue to serve, live on and prosper in his eternal heavenly kingdom. Till we meet again, Alan.  

My last meeting with Joe was two years ago when we were at Steve and Rose's house. Joe prepared the Beef Wellington with such utmost care and love. It was so good and it was due to the love that he poured into that meal that made it exquisite. 
My condolence to the entire Ongtengco family, which is an extension of my family. 

With love and affection,
-Paul Catipon

OBITUARY

Joseph Stephen V. Ongtengco

2 December, 1967 – 7 July, 2021

Ridge Funeral Home

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