Leandro Riel Arca

Leandro Riel Arca was born on March 13, 1942 in Maragondon, Cavite, Philippines. Born in a tunnel during the Japanese occupation, he received the nickname “Taning”. He was the fifth of nine children of Doroteo Riego de Dios Arca and Francisca Riel Arca. He earned a B.S. in Education from Far Eastern University. On May 28, 1966, he married the love of his life, Zoila “Leah” Paiso Santos. They had four children—Marjorie, Marie, Leandro Jr., and Jason. In 1976, Leandro and Leah immigrated to the US with $100 in their pockets. The couple instilled the values of hard work, ambition, kindness, and, most importantly, love. Their children eventually became a doctor, a nurse, a dentist, & a high school teacher. Their legacy of values lives on in their grandchildren. In the Philippines, Leandro taught fourth grade. He then spent 31 years working at Farmer’s Insurance Company. Leandro was the rock that kept our family steadfast, but he always maintained a wonderful sense of humor. He was selfless, courageous, and determined. He always put the needs of others before his own. He led by example, living a life of service, compassion, and generosity. He emphasized the importance of loving God and each other. On July 30, 2015, after a long and hard-fought battle with illness, God called Leandro to join his wife in heaven. He is survived by his children and their spouses--Marjorie (Mario), Marie (Eric), Leandro (Pearl), Jason (James)--and grandchildren-- Abby, Adam, Brandon, and Reilly.