Froilan Cuico Ferrer Sr.

Froilan Cuico Ferrer, Sr., Ondo, as he is fondly called, of Raleigh/Durham, North Carolina passed away on Saturday, December 28, 2019, at the age of 92 years old. After months of failing health, he died peacefully surrounded by his family.

Froilan was born on November 2, 1927 in Cebu City, Philippines to Sebastian Ferrer, Sr. and Rosario Ferrer. As a boy, he lived working odd jobs to help support himself and his family. As a young man, he learned to work hard and to take on whatever job was available to support himself.

In March 23, 1946, he married the love of his life, Narcisa (who is fondly called Isang) Logarta Imbong. They lived together almost inseparably for 59 years. The early times were difficult financially; Froilan and Narcisa made many tough choices in those days. They were blessed with 12 children; Rosemary I. Ferrer, Mariam F. Patagan, Alvin I. Ferrer, Sr., Froilan I. Ferrer, Jr., Abraham I. Ferrer, Melinda F. Bitong, Florante I. Ferrer, Ricardo I. Ferrer, Sr., Maricor I. Ferrer, Marites (Tess) I. Ferrer-Turner, Sonny I. Ferrer, and Mercy May F. Quinlan.

While in Cebu City, Philippines, Froilan worked as the Chief Draftsman of Cebu Shipyard Company Inc., and as a Liaison Officer of Sea Transport Corp. Together with his wife, Narcisa, they raised their 12 beautiful children in a simple home in Lapu-Lapu City for over 50 years. In 1983, they migrated to the United States of America as petitioned by their son, Abraham, for a chance at a better life in providing for a brighter future for their children and their family.

Froilan was a devout Catholic, a faithful devotee of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Vincent Ferrer. He believed in the resurrection and living his life sharing the gospel. He was a man who never ceased to pray even in his final days.

He loved music and dancing, becoming one of the founders of the “Opon Jammers’ Club (American Square Dancing).” He too was a member of The Knights of Columbus Mactan Council #5623; as well as an avid player in tennis and bowling, two of his favorite past times. One thing he loved most of all was spending time with his family and friends.

Froilan was a strong patriarch to his family, a good friend to all, and a man who would give his shirt to a friend. He was a good father who did his best to care, teach, provide, and guide his children; as well as being such a loving grandfather and great grandfather. He was a strong, proud, and a good man who is loved dearly and will be missed by many.

He is preceded in death by his loving wife, Narcisa Ferrer; children, Mariam Patagan, and Froilan Ferrer, Jr.; grandson, Dinno F. Bitong; great-grandchild, Natalia Saunders; daughter-in-law, Emma Sanchez.

Froilan is survived by his sons and daughters; 33 Grandchildren; 39 Great-Grandchildren; 1 Great-great-Grandchild; a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, friends, and beloved extended family.

A wake will be held on Friday, January 10 from 5:00-9:00pm at Mitchell Funeral Home, 7209 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh. A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, January 11 at 1:00pm at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 11401 Leesville Road, Raleigh followed by burial at Raleigh Memorial Park. Following the services, please join the family for a reception at Mitchell Funeral Home.