Jerome Santos

Jerome "Jerry" Santos, affectionately known as "Jake" to many of his friends, passed away in July 2024. He was the second child and first son of +Desi B. Santos and Norma Solis-Santos, born in Quezon City, Philippines.

Jerome had his primary and secondary education at the prestigious Ateneo de Manila, where he excelled academically, receiving numerous awards and honors. He and his family, composed of his parents and four siblings (Jessica, Teenie, Noony and Jon) relocated to Surrey, BC, Canada, in 1975, and he proceeded to complete his high school education at Queen Elizabeth Secondary School.

Following in his father's footsteps, who was an architect, Jerome entered the construction industry, starting as a carpenter laborer and working his way up to becoming a journeyman carpenter. In 1994, he founded Pantera Construction Ltd., successfully completing numerous new builds and renovations in the North Shore, Vancouver, Whistler, and other cities in the Lower Mainland. Jerome was highly regarded in the construction industry for his dedication and expertise.

Beyond his professional life, Jerome was a passionate musician with a collection of guitars, drums, and an 88-key electric keyboard. He was also a sports enthusiast, participating in varsity sports in grade school and basketball in high school. A loyal Raiders football fan, Jerome never wavered in his support for his team.

Jerome is survived by his beloved wife, Elizabeth "Beng" whom he met in high school in 1973. Though separated when Jerome's family moved to Canada in 1975, they reunited in 2004 and, after nearly 30 years, married. Their union was built on love, respect, and loyalty.

In October 2023, Jerome was diagnosed with stage 4 thymic carcinoma, a rare cancer of the thymus gland. Despite undergoing radiation treatments in March 2024, Jerome lost his first battle.

Jerome was a man of wisdom, creativity, and unwavering faith in God. His profound impact on our lives and the countless memories we shared will forever be etched in our hearts.

As we bid farewell to Jerome, let us celebrate his life and remember his kindness, his laughter, and the joy he brought into our lives. His spirit will live on in the stories we tell, the songs we sing, and the buildings and homes he helped create. Jerome’s legacy is one of love, perseverance, and faith, and he will always be remembered as a loving husband, a dedicated professional, and a cherished friend. May he rest in peace.