Ivin L. Shivers

Everyone’s life is the sum total of all of the people they have met, the things they have done, the places they have gone. Ivin Leaño Shivers was no exception. He was a loved one, a friend, and someone special. To family and friends who knew him best, Ivin will be remembered as a very exceptional person.

Ivin’s life journey began on September 3, 1925. He first greeted the world in Manila, Philippines. His parents' names were James Island Shivers and Damasa Julia Leaño. He was raised with two siblings, Dr. Paul Leaño and Nelly L. de la Peña. Ivin was usually involved in all sorts of activities with his family sharing many special life experiences over the years.

Ivin was a typical teenager who had a fairly happy high school experience, making the critical transition from adolescence to adulthood. He graduated from Manila High School in 1936. He later continued his education by attending Manila University where he earned Bachelor of Arts degree in Library Science in 1977.

As a young man, Ivin met and married Maria Teresa Manalo. The couple exchanged wedding vows on November 11, 1954 in Manila, Philippines. The two were blessed with six children, Ruey, Aeñeas, Helen, Michael, Troy and Ian. Ivin worked hard to be a good husband and father. He did his best to fulfill their needs, raising his family in a positive and nurturing environment. He was later blessed with eight grandchildren.

How a person performs in the workplace can be a reflection on how they live their life. Fortunately, Ivin enjoyed what he did for a living. Showing a strong work ethic, Ivin worked diligently and did his best to succeed in his career. Ivin enlisted in The United States Navy and served for twenty years. Throughout his career, Ivin was recognized for his efforts and a job well done. He received various medals and awards including a Purple Heart Medal, United Nations Distinguished Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal, and Expeditionary Service Awards. Upon retirement, he achieved the final rank of Chief Petty Officer.

Later in life, Ivin met and fell in love with Encarnacion Balino Cariaga. They were married on September 16, 1980. In marrying Encarnacion, he was blessed with three step children, Armin, Bille and Cherrie as well as they joy seven grandchildren. Ivin spent the rest of his life happily married to Encarnacion.

Ivin enjoyed his leisure time by taking part in a number of different activities, including reading various magazines and papers, listening to his favorite music, watching movies and his favorite shows on the television, dancing (during his younger years), carpentry, scale modeling, swimming and camping. He enjoyed sharing his interests with others.

Ivin was also very involved in the community. He spent much of his time focused on underprivileged children. He was sure to be kind and helpful in any way possible. His loving nature was never left unnoticed by the children, his family and friends.

Ivin Shivers left us on June 21, 2011. He passed away at Poway Health Center in Poway, California after fighting a courageous battle against prostate cancer. He is survived by his loving wife Encarnacion Shivers; children Ruey M. Shivers, Aeñeas M. Shivers, Helen S. Cacanindin, Michael M. Shivers, Troy M. Shivers and Ian M. Shivers; his step children Armin B. Cariaga, Bille B. Cariaga and Cherrie C. Ibali; as well as his fifteen grandchildren. Services were handled by Glen Abbey Mortuary. A Funeral Mass was held at St. Mary Catholic Church in National City on June 29, 2011. Ivin was laid to rest at Glen Abbey Memorial Park in Bonita, California.

Simply stated, Ivin was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being caring and giving, someone who was a vital part of their lives. Ivin leaves behind him a legacy of lifelong friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life Ivin Leaño Shivers touched will always remember him with a smile.