Eugene Adriano Santiago

Gone too soon… Eugene (Gene) is survived by his mom, Zeny; sisters, Jennifer and Maria; brothers-in-law, John and Michael; nieces, Jasmin and Janelle; and newest member of the family, nephew Mario.

God must’ve needed Gene in Heaven or He wouldn’t have taken him from us so soon. Gene is most likely volunteering for any and all duties doing the things that made him the happiest. Music, check! Writing, check! Taking care of animals and people in need, check! Are there K-dramas in Heaven? With Gene there, you can guarantee he’s on it! Thanks to our Navy- careered dad (RIP, Dad!), Gene was born in Florida but was raised in San Diego, California. He proudly graduated from Emory Elementary School, Mar Vista Jr High School, Southwest High School, and the University of California, San Diego. Prior to settling in Las Vegas as Mom’s full-time caregiver, Gene lived in Boston, MA, Minneapolis, MN, and Dallas, TX. He loved to travel, taking six weeks after college to roam throughout Europe and going back again to accompany Mom to attend Jasmin and Mario’s wedding last September. He visited just about every US state. Gene was always filled with wanderlust (and country music). During his short time here with us, Gene accomplished so much! He was a self-described computer geek (he tried writing code while in Junior High) and excelled in tech writing. He volunteered at church and charitable organizations mainly as tech support, and delivered food to the housebound elderly. Did you know Gene was an inventor? Yes, he had several patents out there. He was also a self-taught musician (guitar and keyboard). Makes sense since he was in band in high school (drums, Baby!) Gene was an avid animal lover. He was particularly known for taking care of strays in the neighborhood.

He was passionate about the things he believed in and was known to be a fierce debater. With his sense of humor, Gene was charismatic and selfless. He gave the last 14 years of his life devoted to Mom and her well-being. Although our hearts are heavy, almost unbearably so, we know Gene is in a happier place… he is home. RIP Gene, enjoy Paradise! We will see each other again.