Florentino de Vera Meriales Jr.

With profound love and gratitude, the family of Florentino De Vera Meriales Jr. announces his peaceful passing on December 4, 2025. Born on May 11, 1959, in Asingan City, Pangasinan, Philippines, Florentino—known fondly as “Junior”—lived a life defined by hard work, quiet strength, and a steadfast devotion to the people he loved.

Florentino was the beloved son of Florentino Meriales Sr. and Agustina De Vera, both of Asingan City. From an early age, he dreamed of becoming a nurse, but life led him down a different path—one that showcased his natural talent and dedication. He became an electrician and ultimately a skilled welder, a profession that embodied his resilience and diligence. His proudest professional accomplishment was his work at Todd Pacific Shipyard, where he earned deep respect from coworkers as well as a Certificate of Appreciation and a one-sided welder certification from the Boilermakers.

In 1991, Florentino married the love of his life, Minierva Gano, in a simple court wedding that blossomed into a lifelong partnership filled with deep affection, unwavering loyalty, and shared dreams. Their love story began as neighbors in adjacent cities and grew stronger as they worked side by side in Manila. Together, they welcomed their first child, beginning a beautiful journey as a family. Florentino was a protective and devoted husband—passionate, sincere, and wholeheartedly committed.

As a father, Florentino was both kind and firm, a man who guided with quiet example rather than harsh words. He took immense pride in his children and the values he passed down to them—self-reliance, humility, and the importance of hard work. One of his greatest joys was the day he successfully brought his family to the United States, and later, the moment he was able to reunite all of them once more under one roof. His life was filled with love that extended beyond boundaries, and he approached all of his responsibilities—including the more complex parts of his journey—with compassion and grace, offering deeper meaning and gentleness where it mattered most.

Florentino found happiness in simple pleasures: fishing and crabbing by the water, playing cards—especially the Filipino game Tong Its—visiting the Philippines whenever he could, and enjoying a warm cup of Dunkin’ Donuts coffee. Music also held a special place in his heart, with his favorite song, Field of Forever, reflecting his spirit—enduring, steady, and full of hope.

Kind yet strong, gentle yet firm, Florentino lived a life of sincerity and purpose. He taught by example, showing his children that success is built through determination, that love is shown through action, and that family is life’s greatest blessing.

Above all, he wished to be remembered as a good father—and he will be. He leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and devotion that will continue to guide his family for generations.

Florentino De Vera Meriales Jr. will be deeply missed, forever cherished, and lovingly remembered. His life, though humble, was extraordinary in all the ways that matter.

May he rest in eternal peace.