Sony Angeles

(“Chief Sony”)

Sony Saqui Angeles, lovingly known as “Chief Sony,” was born on November 17, 1927, in Imus Barangay, Cavite, Philippines, to Encarnación Brisso Saqui and Jose Antonio Acuña Angeles.

Growing up during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines in World War II, Chief Sony developed a deep sense of duty and resilience. At a young age, he seized the opportunity to serve by joining the United States Navy. He was sent to Great Lakes, Illinois, for naval basic training, where his life changed forever. It was there he met Leticia “Nana” Carrenceja Mariano, originally from the Bicol province of the Philippines. They married on May 29, 1954, in Chicago, beginning a partnership filled with love, adventure, and unwavering devotion.

Chief Sony dedicated 20 years to the Navy, serving during a transformative era. His early assignments took him to various duty stations across the globe, including Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, Sasebo, Japan, Newport, RI, Kingsville, TX and his final tour of duty in San Diego, CA fostering lifelong camaraderie and friendships, as well as a passion for service. Chief Sony retired as a Chief Petty Officer but continued his dedication to his country, achieving a second retirement in civil service at Naval Air Station Miramar in San Diego as Grounds Maintenance Supervisor. During this time he obtained his degree in Landscape Design from Mesa Community College in San Diego.

Beyond his professional achievements, Chief Sony embraced a rich and fulfilling life. He was an active member of the Imus Caviteños community, a testament to his pride in his Filipino heritage. His hobbies included gardening, playing mahjong, boxing, and cooking his signature dishes, both Filipino and global, which became staples at family gatherings. His recipes were never written down but shared flavors of love from his heart. Up to the time of his illness, for over 20 years, Chief Sony enjoyed his regular morning coffee gatherings with his fellow Filipino shipmates. He took great pride that over the years, the group was recognized by the San Diego Police Department for their community service in public safety.

Chief Sony’s character was defined by humility, a sharp sense of humor, and a deep love for his family. He believed in the values of hard work, kindness, and generosity, traits he passed down to his children and grandchildren.

He and Nana shared a love for travel, marking special milestones with journeys that reflected their adventurous spirits. They enjoyed a Mexican cruise, annual trips to the Philippines for “Araw Nang Mga Kukulawa” or All Saints Day, Easter blessings by the Pope in Rome, Italy, seeking healing in Lourdes, France and a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, Israel. One of their most treasured celebrations was their 50th wedding anniversary in Maui, Hawaii surrounded by the legacy of family.

Chief Sony is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Leticia (Nana). He is survived by his children: Marina, Joe (Joie) Anthony (Eleanor), Joni (Richard), and Jamie; his grandchildren: Cody Angeles (Danika) Olivia Melanie Angeles (Brandon), Matthew Morris (Veronica), Daniel Morris, Sarah Angeles Morris, Peter Tereschuck, and Julia Tereschuck; and his great-grandchildren: Kamea Angeles and Kalani Angeles.

Chief Sony’s legacy is one of love, duty and family. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the honor of knowing him.

Services in His Honor

Viewing will be held on Thursday, January 30th, 4pm-8pm at El Cajon Mortuary, 684 South Mollison Avenue, El Cajon, CA. The family will also hold a memorial service at 11am at El Cajon Mortuary following a military funeral to honor Sony’s service on Friday, January 31st, at 1pm at Miramar National Cemetery located at 5795 Noble Drive, San Diego, CA.