Lemuel Paraso Cortes

1946 was a good year...on March 19 Lemuel was born to Guillermo Ibe Cortes and Florencia Mejia Paraso in Gerona, Tarlac, Philippines. His parents would later have three more sons: Don, Carlo and Gic. “Lem”, his favorite nickname, completed formal education in Cecilio Apostol Elementary, Caloocan City High School and University of the East in the Philippines. Pursued another bachelor's degree in Aviation Management from Southern Illinois, Carbondale, IL in 1986 coinciding with his retirement from the US Navy after 20 years of military service. His quest for service in law enforcement was rewarded with a position as Special Agent in the Defense Investigative Service and in the Office of Personnel Management. He retired from another 20 years service in January 2008.

Married the love of his life Corazon Consuelo Edio in January 1973. Served his enlistments in the Philippines, Japan, Florida, Texas, California, Hawaii, across oceans – just wherever Uncle Sam needed him. Moved to Arizona upon retirement from civil service and nested in Surprise where he spent time to address his medical issues. He refused to give up on his active lifestyle, centered his “Plan Of the Day” around family and friends and the things he enjoyed doing, especially playing cards and just driving around town with his dogs, NeYo and MiYa. A natural-born leader, Lem took pride in his achievements and accomplishments and took active roles in volunteering at community projects, supporting church activities and leading civic organizations. He was notably listed in California's “Who's Who” in December 1990, recognized for outstanding professional achievement, superior leadership and exceptional service. In Hawaii where he spent 13 years of civilian sevice he was popularly known as “king of tong it” and “macho man.” To the Geronians of Southern California, he was regarded as their “godfather” and “pusoy king.”

Sharp as a tack, up until his final days, Lem was a lover and a fighter. He was determined to live life to the fullest despite his limitations. A man built of kindness, generosity, fortitude, wisdom and wisecracks. He will be remembered for his easy, infectious smile and his naughty one-liners. Everyone had a good laugh around him. Lem will be greatly missed and will forever be in our hearts.

Lem wearily let go of life on this earth to enter into the loving arms of his Savior Jesus Christ on February 26, 2016.

In celebration of his life, a Memorial Service and Sharing of Memories and Comfort will be held on Sunday, March 13, 2016 from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Pierce Brothers Crestlawn Memorial Park and Mortuary, 11500 Arlington Avenue, Riverside, CA 92505. He will be laid to rest at the Riverside National Cemetery at 10:31AM on Tuesday, March 15, 2016.