Antipaz Cabonitalla Cabotaje

Antipaz C. Cabotaje, Sr., fondly known as “Peping” by his family and friends, passed away on Wednesday, January 11, 2017 in the Intensive Care Unit at Balboa Naval Medical Center in San Diego, California surrounded by his loving wife and children. From his humble beginnings in the Philippines, he traveled the world while serving 25 years in the United States Navy and was a veteran of the Vietnam War. His extraordinary heroism, dedication and bravery awarded him medals of Honor. These medals include National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Four Good Conduct Awards and the Combat Action Ribbon. He served his country honorably and was an example of self-sacrifice, discipline and moral goodness. His exemplary character emulated his commitment to service and the common good. On September 25, 1964 he married the love of his life in Chicago, Illinois and they were blessed with three wonderful children, all born in Chicago. The family moved to San Diego, California in the early 1970’s. Antipaz was a man of strong Catholic faith. He was a Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus, a Catechist, a prayer group member and a Eucharistic Minister for the church. He volunteered at several organizations and the one that was dear to his heart was volunteering at Father Joe’s Villages/Ministry. He loved to help others and make a difference in the world. He also kept busy by managing the family business for several years known as Perpetual Guest Home which was a board and care facility for the elderly. Antipaz fancied a simple life. He enjoyed cooking, singing, sports such as basketball (his favorite team was the L.A. Lakers). He also enjoyed golf, swimming and boxing (he loved Manny Pacquiao), just to name a few. He loved listening to Elvis Presley and Tony Bennet. He enjoyed singing “Tanging Alay Ko,” with his wife. He was an avid news watcher and kept abreast of all the developments happening around the world. He was the family news reporter. His favorite shows were CNN and The O’Reilly Factor. The highlights of his life were his family. He was a devoted and loving husband to his wife of 53 years. He was proud of his children for whom he, by the grace of God, provided a good life and a great education. He taught his children the importance of family. His grandchildren were his pride and joy; the apple of his eye. He loved to attend their sporting events, enjoyed outdoor adventures, walks at the park and beach, road trips and just simply spoiling them. Antipaz was a humble man with a big heart and was friendly to everyone he encountered in his life and met no stranger. He was well-liked and had a quiet spirit yet his presence was always known. His ever so radiant smile lit up the room as if the sun had just emerged from the clouds. Antipaz lived a gracious life filled with joy and blessings surrounded by so much love. He is survived by his wife Salome Azada Alimboyoguen Cabotaje, his son JR Cabotaje (wife Olivia), daughters Jacqueline Cabotaje Escamilla (husband Mario) and Joanne Cabotaje Ito (husband Ron); and two favorite grandchildren Michael and Kate. He is also survived by his younger sisters Valeriana Cabotaje Vigilia, Mercedes Cabotaje de la Cruz, Natividad Cabotaje Vigilia and his brother (in heaven) Tito Cabonitalla Cabotaje