Donard Pantaleon Cayabyab

Donard Pantaleon Cayabyab, affectionately known as Donarciano, age 97, of Bonita, California, entered eternal life on June 4, 2026, strengthened by the sacraments of the Holy Catholic Church. Born on May 24, 1929, in Lingayen, Pangasinan, Philippines, he was the cherished son of Eugenio and Olympia Cayabyab.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather, Donard is survived by his beloved wife, Areopagita “Peggy” Enrique Cayabyab, with whom he shared nearly 69 years of marriage. He is also survived by his children Cynthia (Eugene) Brown, Estela Tinio, and Aura (Russell) Reynolds; his grandchildren Alexis Marquez (Tony), Ryan Tinio (Rachel), Schuyler Marquez (Felipe), and Rebecca Reynolds (Andrew, fiancée); and his great grandchildren Nathan Tinio and Lucy Marquez Galoppini.

He was preceded in death by his son, Ronald “Ron” Cayabyab (d. 1982). Donard treasured his family deeply, living out the truth of Psalm 127: “Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from Him.”

A faithful Catholic throughout his life, Donard was a longtime parishioner at Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Bonita, CA where he found strength in the Eucharist and consolation in prayer. He often reflected on Christ’s promise: “I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in Me, even if he dies, will live” (John 11:25).

Guided by humility, service, and a deep sense of duty, Donard served his country as a U.S. Navy Veteran, rising to the rank of Master Chief. His military career included service during the Vietnam War, and after retiring from 25 years of Naval Service, he continued to serve the nation as a civil engineer. His combined military and civil service spanned more than 35 years.

Donard also dedicated himself to his community and his faith. He founded two Knights of Columbus Councils—one at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in National City and another at St. Jerome Parish in South Bay, San Diego. He was one of the founders of the Lingayen Association of Southern California and provided leadership to the organization for over 40 years. He served for many years as President of the South Bay Filipino American Organization, faithfully participated in the Usher Ministry, and supported numerous charitable works. He lived the wisdom of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, who taught that “small acts done with great love” transform the world.

In his daily life, Donard was known for his kindness, patience, humor, generosity, and perseverance. Whether through his work, his service, or his personal passions, he continually sought to glorify God in all things.

Services

• Viewing & Rosary: June 18, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. Glen Abbey Memorial Chapel 3838 Bonita Rd., Bonita, CA 91902

• Mass of Christian Burial: June 18, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Corpus Christi Catholic Parish 450 Corral Canyon Rd., Bonita, CA 91902

• Committal Service: June 18, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. Glen Abbey Memorial Park

• Reception: 3:30–5:30 p.m. at Glen Abbey Memorial Park

The family invites all to join them in prayer for the repose of Donard’s soul.

“Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen.”