Rodolfo Langit Nitollama MD

A beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, surgeon, educator, writer, and friend, Dr. Nitollama was born on August 31, 1951, in Olongapo City, Zambales, Philippines, and was the eldest of eight children. Known for his sharp intellect, Dr. Nitollama graduated as valedictorian of his high school class and was a pre-medicine scholar at the University of the Philippines. He was voted class president and went on to earn his Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from the University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center. He completed his four-year residency and fellowship in orthopedic surgery at the Philippine General Hospital from 1978 to 1981. Dr. Nitollama was also a prominent member of the Upsilon Sigma Phi Fraternity since 1969 and the Phi Kappa Mu Fraternity since 1971. He was previously nominated as the Most Outstanding Physician of Albay, Philippines, and was elected Fellow of the Philippine College of Surgeons (FPCS), the American College of Surgeons (FACS), and the International College of Surgeons (FICS).

Throughout his distinguished career as a surgeon, he was also known as a prolific writer and outspoken “activist.” He served as Editor-in-Chief of his college newspaper, SINAG, and was an active contributor to his local community paper, The Movement. He later became Editor-in-Chief of Ortho Balita and the Philippine Journal of Orthopedics from 1986 to 2005. In addition, he served as Associate Professor and Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon at the Bicol Christian College of Medicine from 1990 to 2004. In 2005, he relocated to Las Vegas, Nevada, to be closer to his family, where he transitioned into roles as a Clinical Research Coordinator for the Department of Veterans Affairs and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas School of Medicine (UNLVSOM). He also served as a faculty member at Touro University and High Tech Institute of Las Vegas. Dr. Nitollama was deeply appreciated and admired by his colleagues, patients, and the many students he mentored throughout his career.

Despite his dedication to his profession, he was truly a jack of all trades. He found joy in traveling, singing karaoke, relaxing by the beach, playing chess, and keeping up with the world through his collection of daily newspapers.

Above all, his greatest pride and joy was his children, whom he deeply loved. He is survived by his eight children: Katherine Joy (Peter), Phillip Hermalex (Stephanie), Christopher Paul (Jenni), Janice Jaylo, Carla Angelica, Ralph Bernard, Liza Stephanie, and Arvin Emmanuel. He cherished every moment with them and instilled in them the values of hard work and humility while leading by example.

He also leaves behind his beloved wife and partner of 38 years, Bernardita; six sisters — Sonia (Juan), Tess (Bob), Evelyn, Arlene (Mark), Lulu, and Vilma — one brother, Julius (Vernie); and several grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. His 12 grandchildren include Anthony Zachie, Amiyah Kumiko, Aria Kassidy, Arion Khristian, Jace Theodore, Miles Raiden, Luke Stephen, Kyla Ann, Keira Joyce, Caylee Jade, Chloe Jane, and Charlie Jewel.

Dr. Nitollama dedicated his life to serving others through medicine and education while faithfully serving his community for over five decades. He lived a remarkable life filled with purpose, compassion, and love, and he left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Visitation services will be held on May 19, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM at Palm Eastern Mortuary & Cemetery, followed by funeral services from 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM. Burial services will follow at 3:00 PM. A Celebration of Life reception will be held afterward.