Alejandro Reyes Pena

Al Pena was born on May 29, 1936, in Orani, Bataan, Philippines, to his loving parents, Leoncio Pena and Felicitas Reyes Pena.

He grew up alongside his sister, Magdalena, and his two brothers, Leonardo and Ernesto, surrounded by the family and traditions that helped shape his life.

Al received his early education in the Philippines and attended Jose Rizal Institute. He continued his education at Southwestern College, where he studied business administration, preparing himself for a life of hard work, responsibility, and service.

One of Al’s greatest accomplishments was his honorable service in the United States Navy. He dedicated an impressive 30 years of his life to serving his country, ultimately retiring with the distinguished rank of Chief Warrant Officer 4.

His long and dedicated naval career reflected his commitment to duty, discipline, and responsibility.

Al was proud of his time in the Navy and enjoyed sharing stories about his experiences with friends.

These memories remained an important part of his life, and he took pleasure in recounting the people he met, the places he visited, and the experiences he gained throughout his years of service.

Al married the love of his life, Belen, in Orani, Bataan, Philippines, at Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Church.

Together, they built a life centered on family, love, and commitment. Their marriage was blessed with three children: Guerrams, Allen, and Neil, who became an important part of Al’s life and legacy.

Al was a loving and devoted husband and father who took his responsibilities to heart. He worked hard to provide for his family and made sure their needs were met.

He created a warm and welcoming home where his family could feel safe, protected, and loved.

Al believed in taking care of those closest to him, and he demonstrated that commitment through his hard work, dependability, and dedication to his family.

His love was reflected in the everyday things he did to make sure his loved ones were comfortable and well cared for.

Family traditions and celebrations were also important to Al. Two of his favorite holidays were Christmas Day and the Fourth of July.

These occasions offered opportunities to gather with family and friends, enjoy good food, and create lasting memories.

Al appreciated the special feeling that came with holidays and the chance to spend time with the people who mattered most to him.

When it came to food, Al was no stranger to the kitchen. He was a good cook and especially enjoyed taking charge of the barbecue.

Preparing food was something he took pride in, and he was always ready to put his cooking skills to use. Whether he was grilling outdoors or helping bring a meal together, Al enjoyed sharing good food with the people around him.

When the family decided to dine out, two of his favorite restaurants were the Royal Mandarin and Panda Chef. These restaurants were among his top choices when he wanted to enjoy a meal away from home.

Outside of his family and professional life, Al had a wide variety of interests that kept him busy and entertained.

He enjoyed following local and international news, staying informed about what was happening in the world, although he did not care much for politics.

When it was time to relax and enjoy some television, two of his favorite game shows were Let's Make a Deal and The Price Is Right.

He enjoyed watching the contestants, seeing what prizes they might win, and following along with the excitement of the games.

Al also loved music and enjoyed singing along with the radio. Music provided him with another simple pleasure, and he could enjoy a familiar tune whenever the opportunity arose.

Whether he was listening to his favorite songs, watching television, or catching up on the latest news, Al appreciated the everyday activities that made life enjoyable.

Shopping was another pastime Al enjoyed. Sometimes he went shopping to purchase things he needed, while other times he simply enjoyed shopping as a recreational activity.

He liked getting out, looking around, and seeing what he might find.

Al also had an adventurous spirit and a genuine love of travel. He enjoyed going on tours and exploring different countries throughout Europe and Asia.

These travels allowed him to experience different cultures, see new places, and create memories that he could share with others. His curiosity and willingness to explore the world added another meaningful dimension to his life.

Al had many hobbies that reflected his practical skills and varied interests. He enjoyed gardening and woodworking, activities that allowed him to work with his hands and take pride in what he accomplished.

He also enjoyed collecting knickknacks, finding enjoyment in the small things that caught his attention.

And, like many people who enjoy the possibility of a little good fortune, Al liked playing the lottery.

Al was an athletic man who enjoyed staying active. Tennis and bowling were among his favorite sporting activities, giving him opportunities to enjoy friendly competition and spend time doing things he loved.

He was also an avid San Diego Chargers fan. Following his favorite football team was another way Al enjoyed his leisure time, and his enthusiasm for the Chargers was part of what made him who he was.

One particularly special part of Al's life was his love for German Shepherds. These dogs held a special place in his heart, and he rarely wanted to be without their companionship.

He often had one or two German Shepherds at his side. Their loyalty and presence brought him happiness, and it was clear that Al had a genuine affection for these wonderful animals. His love for them was another reflection of the many things that brought him comfort and joy throughout his life.

Al lived a long and full life, reaching the remarkable age of 90. Throughout those years, he experienced the rewards of a dedicated military career, the joys of raising a family, the excitement of traveling, and the simple pleasures of cooking, music, sports, and his many hobbies.

He was a hardworking man who took pride in his responsibilities, a devoted husband and father who worked to provide for his family, and a man who appreciated the experiences and interests that made life meaningful to him.

Al passed away on October 16, 2026, at the age of 90. Although his passing leaves a void in the lives of those who knew and loved him, his memory will continue to live on through his family, the stories he shared, the experiences he enjoyed, and the many memories he leaves behind.

Today, as we remember Al, we honor not only his 30 years of honorable service to our country but also the life he built with Belen and their children, the dedication he showed to his family, and the many interests that brought him happiness.

His journey took him from the Philippines to a distinguished career in the United States Navy and to travels across Europe and Asia, but the love he shared with his family remained one of the most important parts of his life.

May the memories of Al's life bring comfort to his family and friends in the days ahead. May they find peace in remembering his devotion, his accomplishments, his adventurous spirit, and the simple pleasures he enjoyed.

Though he is no longer physically present, the love he gave, the stories he told, and the memories he created will remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

Al will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished by his family and all those whose lives he touched.