Celerino Lim Samson

It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of Celerino Lim Samson, known lovingly to many as Tito Nino. Celerino was born on June 15, 1950, and passed away on July 18, 2025, at the age of 75. He is survived by his loving wife, Florenda; his devoted son, Timothy; and his cherished dog and constant companion, Tyson. He leaves behind many siblings, nieces, nephews, and friends who loved him deeply.

Born and raised in the Philippines, Tito Nino was one of many siblings. He always took care of people and did that from a young age, often looking after his younger siblings. The riverbanks near his childhood home were the backdrop to many of his favorite memories — walking home from school he would catch crabs or catfish with his bare hands, bringing food home for his family.

On April 20, 1977, Celerino made the life-changing journey to Canada, building a new life with grit, heart, and humour. Over the years, he worked as a chef and housekeeper, always bringing warmth to the homes and kitchens he served. His booming laugh, infectious energy, and unique sense of humor made him unforgettable — his voice could fill a room and his laughter could lift any mood.

A devoted volunteer, Cerelino gave back to his community in many ways, including his time with Community Policing and Barangay safety initiatives. He was deeply proud of his role as a community volunteer and was always ready to lend a hand.

Celerino had many passions. He was an avid fisherman and hunter and a lifelong lover of music. You can often hear him listening to ABBA or Bruno Mars in the car or at home.

He will be remembered for his friendliness, his larger-than-life presence, and the deep care he gave to those around him. Whether you knew him as a brother, uncle, husband, father, friend, or simply as the man with the unmistakable voice and an even bigger heart, Tito Nino left a lasting mark.

He will be dearly missed, always loved, and forever remembered.

Visitation will be held at Hamilton Harron Funeral Home, located at 5390 Fraser Street, Vancouver, BC, V5W 2Z1, on August 5, 2025, from 6:00 pm to 9:30 pm. Additional visitation will take place at St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Parish, located at 2881 Main St, Vancouver, BC, V5T 3G1, on August 6, 2025, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.

The funeral service will be conducted at St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Parish, 2881 Main St, Vancouver, BC, V5T 3G1, on August 6, 2025, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm.

A graveside service will follow at Ocean View Funeral Home & Burial Park, 4000 Imperial St, Burnaby, BC, V5J 1A4, on August 6, 2025, from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm.

Please use the following link to RSVP to the visitation reception and reception to follow the graveside service.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeJnNrVb0umWq6QzMKsDZN91ral5zyX4O_rJ8kUbNZ9VelPcg/viewform