Felipe Ramon Ledesma

Felipe Ramon Ledesma, lovingly known as Phil, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2025, at the age of 97. As a devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, Felipe’s life was a testament to faith, family and love.

Born on March 10, 1927, in Los Angeles, California, Felipe was the eldest of a close-knit family of 10 children born to Felipe and Anita Ledesma. They moved to what was then named Cucamonga and Felipe graduated from Chaffey High School in Ontario, before proudly serving his country in the U.S. Army during World War II. His service was cut short when his father became ill and Felipe was called home to take care of his family.

In 1948 he married Aurora Mercado, who would be his beloved wife for 76 years. His love for her and his children were an extraordinary example of commitment, and it was clear to all how deeply he cherished her and embraced and loved being a husband and a father. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with family and great love.

A hardworking and skilled meat cutter by trade, Felipe began his career at King Cole and Stater Bros. Markets in Ontario, before fulfilling he and his wife’s dream of owning and operating Phil’s Gourmet Meats and Delicatessen in Ontario, California. Through their business, they became cherished members of the community, offering delicious quality foods with warmth, friendship, and a welcoming spirit to all who visited their store.

Felipe’s Catholic faith was the cornerstone of his life. He was a devoted and active parishioner of St. George Catholic Church and school in Ontario and St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Upland. Felipe was also an active member of the Knights of Columbus. He and Aurora organized numerous dinners and fiestas for the church and community. They were always serving those in need.

Felipe’s deep spirituality and service to others were matched only by his love for gardening, mariachi music, and spending quality time at the beach, parks or at home with his family and friends.

Felipe is survived by his beautiful wife Aurora, their 8 children and their spouses Philip (Judy), Susanna (William), Richard (Kelly), Joseph (Regina), Gilbert (Gigi), Robert (Cynthia), Antoinette (Steven), and Julie; his siblings Rachel Ramirez, Beckie Valadez, and Arturo (Anita) Ledesma. His pride and joy extended to his 57 grandchildren, 63 great-grandchildren (with three on the way), 10 great-great grandchildren as well as countless other relatives. Also survived by his Sisters-in-law Dawn Ledesma and Cecilia Ledesma.

Felipe was a strong, hardworking, humble, kind and compassionate gentleman. His willingness to serve and care for everyone has left a lasting impression that inspires all who were blessed to know him or call him family. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his gentle loving smile, kind soul, and devotion to family and faith.

May every serene sunset, flutter of a hummingbird, sight of a plane soaring above, or aroma of delicious Mexican food, lively sound of mariachi music, and sight of beauty of flowers and Bonsai gardens surrounded by palms serve as lasting reminders of Felipe’s spirit alive in our hearts forever.

In the words of Felipe, as his hands would gently motion the sign of the cross, God bless you all.