Modesto Alejo Cerbana

He was preceded in death by the love of his life Angelina Cerbana on October 26,2021

Modesto was born on October 3, 1930, in Wahiawa, Hawaii. He spent his early youth in Hawaii, and his teens in Cavite, Philippines. After graduating from the University of the Philippines, he felt that it was his civic duty to enlist in the US Army, to serve in the Korean Conflict from 1950-1953. With limited basic training at that time, Mo served a year of infantry at the front line, and was awarded various medals of commendation. He consequently was recognized and awarded a symbolic Medal of Peace from a South Korean Diplomat in 2019. Though challenging, his war experience did not define him, but it strengthened his resolve to live a fulfilling life. Nothing would ever stand in his way for future success.

On Christmas Eve of 1955, he married his one and only Lina. In 1963, they relocated to Guam, then eventually Honolulu, Hawaii. For over 30 years, Mo was a dependable Purchasing/Project Manager for various construction firms throughout Hawaii. His leadership skills and qualities were always evident to others, once being elected President of the PTA at his daughter’s school, also served as a business/campaign manager for both a State of Hawaii District Senator, as well as a Hawaii State Senator. His skill set also enabled his son’s youth baseball team to fund-raise for various baseball trips, something that was not common at that time, even drawing the ire of The League.

Mo and Lina were both known for their love of dancing, cooking, and especially hosting their many friends and relatives in Hawaii. Always active in their church, he enjoyed being in the choir, and partaking in many of their social activities. Mo was an excellent dancer, even teaching in his early youth. He and Lina both shared that passion, taking classes to enrich their lives.

In 1994, Las Vegas beckoned them for retirement. Once again, Mo’s genuine, friendly, and playful personality gained them many more friends. Mo and Lina were both generous and fun-loving, often hosting large catered events to celebrate their milestones or their casino good fortunes!

Mo was especially known for his colorful storytelling, witty jokes, and humble self. League bowling also allowed him and Lina to create new social circles. Retirement enabled Mo to hone his carpentry skills, often waking up the household with the sounds of power tools or hammering! He was a self-taught piano player, loved to play the piano or organ after listening to a song a few times. Mo especially loved making Lina laugh. A quiet day at home sometimes meant games of rummy, whereby Lina or Mo would laugh out loud each time either one would proclaim “Rummy!”

Playing bingo became their next, almost daily hobby. They were easily recognized by their smiles or by the hat they wore that day, and eventually by their use of walkers. Their fur-babies would look forward to the treats they brought home from the buffet that day.

Mo is now at peace, no longer lonely as he's once again united with his true love—laughing, and dancing with Lina to their song,” Sincerely”. Together, hand in hand, they’re winners proclaiming Bingo! at the Pearly Gates of Heaven, their glowing souls shining bright.

Mo is survived by his three children, Carla Marie (Sergio) Ramirez of Brownsville, TX, Debbie-Anne (Jose) Vargas-Lebron of Waianae, Hi and Chris (Cherlyn) Cerbana of Las Vegas NV. He was a grandfather to three: Leilani Ramirez, Samson Cerbana, and Nicole Endo. He’s also loved by his 9 great grandchildren and 1 great great.

A celebration gathering will be at 11am, Sun. Sept 25, with a luncheon following at Palm Mortuary, 7400 W Cheyenne Ave, Las Vegas

Services in Hawaii will be held on later date.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.palmcheyenne.com for the Cerbana family.