Francis A. Empeno Sr

Francis Abueg Empeno, Sr. found heavenly peace on November 24, 2024 in Honolulu, Hawai'i. He was held by his son, Francis “Frankie” Alimagno Empeno, Jr., surrounded by his loved ones at the time of his passing.

Frank, as he was known to family and friends, was born in the Philippines on June 29, 1951, the first-born child to Henry and Feliciana Abueg Empeno. In 1969, he graduated from Sweetwater High School, in National City, California before attending the University of Southern California (“USC”) on an ROTC scholarship. He graduated in 1973 with a bachelor’s degree in International Relations. Soon after, Frank was commissioned as an ensign in the U.S. Navy. He served in the Vietnam War. He was a staunch advocate for veterans and members of the United States Armed Forces.

After leaving the Navy with the rank of Lieutenant, Frank eventually found employment at Young Brothers, LLC on the island of O’ahu, Hawai’i, and after 25 years of service, retired in 2019 as the company’s Shipping & Logistics Superintendent. In his retirement, Frank took great joy in filling the inboxes of family members with the news and accomplishments of relatives or of laudable actions by famous Filipinos from around the world. Frank took the roles of “Kuya or Big Brother” to his two siblings, “Uncle” to their children and “Manong” to his cousins and their children with utmost pride and serious intent. He also freely shared his wisdom on a variety of subjects, particularly sports, and most particularly his beloved USC Trojans, of which he boasted about at every opportunity.

But the singular role he was most proud of in life, was the role of father to his only son, Frankie. Frank’s rooms were filled with photos and memorabilia of Frankie through the years of his childhood and up to present day; his pride evident whenever he spoke of his son.

His last marriage was to Merlita “Merlie” Aligmano, Frankie’s mom, who , after their divorce, maintained a close friendship. In his later years, this friendship blossomed into a deep appreciation for companionship, with Merlie growing to become a gracious, loving, and attentive caregiver to Frank. His final weeks were spent commuting to his many appointments and to savor his favorite snacks and foods at various groceries and eateries, often with Merlie’s assistance.

Frank is survived by his son, Frankie, his father, Henry Empeno, Sr., brother, Henry Empeno, Jr. (Rowena), sister, Leilani Empeno McHugh (Tim) and many cousins, nephews, nieces and grand-nephews and grand-nieces all of whom will miss his presence deeply.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Frank’s memory to the National Kidney Foundation of Hawaii (www.kidneyhi.org). This organization provided Frank with invaluable assistance in the many years he was on dialysis.