Norberto Tan

Norberto R. Tan June 10, 1942 - July 27, 2013 Norberto R. Tan, born in Tarangnan Samar, Philippines June 10, 1942, died July 27, 2013. The youngest of seven, he was born to Quina and Paciencia Tan, whom he lost at an early age before being taken in by his older siblings, who raised and nurtured him. He was focused during his youth, and very determined to succeed. During his high school and college years he was an active member of numerous academic organizations on campus. He often assumed a leadership role in those organizations and in college he was often elected president. He finished his chemical engineering degree in Adamson University, Philippines, in 1965 and worked in the Philippines before immigrating to the U.S. in 1973. He worked as a production engineer for Cylenese Corporation in New Jersey until moving to California after his marriage in 1978. For the next 13 years he worked as a research engineer for Filtrol Corporation in Los Angeles, commuting to Bakersfield on weekends to be with his family and to help raise his 4 boys. At age 60, after the company moved to Texas, he retired and attended to family affairs while continuing to watch his children grow. Eventually, he and his wife were introduced to the Bakersfield Smooth Dancer's Club where they learned and enjoyed ballroom dancing, while developing camaraderie with the people around them, and making numerous, lasting friendships. He had a very pleasant personality, and was good natured, jolly, and sociable. He was also very sensitive, and always wanted to look presentable to those around him. He was very technical, taking pleasure in finishing his projects, and was very creative in his approach to problem solving. He loved to write and visit new places, especially if it entailed the sea and fishing. He was a devout Catholic, a loving and devoted husband, who loved and cared for his family dearly. He will truly be missed by all who knew him. Now he is with the Lord, enjoying ever lasting life and peace. He is survived by Marietta, his wife of 35 years; Sons, Marco, Nelson, Oliver and Phillip; Brothers, Eutiquio Tan and Family, Teofilo Tan and Family; Sisters, Estelita La Sala, Perla and Family, Colita Reyes and Family; Nieces and Nephews; In-Laws: The Marzan and Gough Family. Viewing will be held from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, August 8th and 9th, at Hillcrest Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donate to your favorite charity . Funeral services will be held 10 a.m. Saturday, August 10th at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church.