Leonardo M. Cobarrubia

Leonardo M. Cobarrubia was known as many things to many people. He was a loved one, a friend, and someone special. To family and friends who knew him best, Leonardo will be remembered as a very exceptional person.

Leonardo was born on May 8, 1933 in Cavite City, Philippines, the son of Pacifico Cobarrubia and Serafina Mata Cobarrubia and was raised in San Narciso, Zambales, Philippines with two sisters, Norma Cobarrubia Alcones and Erlinda Cobarrubia Calma.

On April 20. 1955, Leonardo exchanged wedding vows with Milagros Narte Alcones. Empathetic and loyal, Leonardo was committed to making his new family happy. While everything a person does in life contributes to who they grow into, it is ultimately this same person who holds the most influence on the next generation. Leonardo was blessed with eight children, three sons; Dece A. Cobarrubia, Leonardo A. Cobarrubia Jr. and Christie A. Cobarrubia, and five daughters; Norbelita A. Cobarrubia, Nancy C. Lerma, Milmar C. Jocson, Lani C. Sambat and Leona C. Cortez. Leonardo worked hard to be a good father to his children and he did his best to fulfill their needs, raising his children in a positive and nurturing environment. Another blessing for Leonardo was the gift of 21 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

How a person performs in the workplace can be a reflection on how they live their life. Fortunately, Leonardo enjoyed what he did for a living. His primary occupation was as a driver at Subic Bay Naval Base officers club, Philippines for 35 years. He also worked as a customer service representative at the navy exchange at Naval Station San Diego, California for 20 years. Showing a strong work ethic, Leonardo worked diligently and did his best to succeed.

Leonardo’s memorable accomplishments included being a loving husband, father, grandfather and brother. He was also an active member and a deacon of Iglesia ni Cristo (Church of Christ). Leonardo came a very long way from the point of his first and till his very last breath. Leonardo became an orphan at a young age. He worked very hard and valued every meal because he was too poor to have the necessities in life. That is why he took great importance to every penny spent and every meal consumed. Despite the hardships and trials in life, he led a righteous way of life. He looked upon the bright side of every situation because he entrusted his life in God's hands. He grew up being very sociable, which is why he has many friends. Sometimes he would just call you out of the blue and talk to you for hours because he wanted to see how you are. He was more loving to his family and even to his friends. He spoiled his children by buying them toys, food, and even supporting them with their education because he wanted to give them the things he could not have. That is why his family loved him with all their hearts and sometimes repaid him by scaring him and tickling him because he was a jumpy and ticklish person.

Even though he was old, he learned how to use Facebook and used it all day. There, he was able to see what was going on with his friends and children and grandchildren in the Philippines at the touch of his fingertips. He loved to listen to music, even if it meant blasting the speakers on a high volume for all his neighbors to hear. What was very admirable about Leonardo is that he will never say no to you. He will always extend his hand to those who need help, whether it'll be asking for a ride, borrowing money, or even lending or moving furniture. Everyone always had a good time with him because he was a very friendly person. Although he did not grow up with any parents to guide him in his life, he found a way to be a diligent because he continues to be an inspiration to all of us. Forgetting Leonardo is impossible because he gave all of us so much to remember. He will forever be in all of our mind, spirit, and hearts. We will always love you and miss you.

"A heart of steel has stopped beating, two shining eyes at rest. God broke our hearts to prove, he only takes the best..."

Leonardo enjoyed his leisure time bowling, listening to music, walking and loved taking pictures. He was content to enjoy his favorite pastime alone but was also willing to share his interests with others.

After suffering a heart attack, Leonardo passed away on July 15, 2016 in San Diego, California. Services were handled by Glen Abbey Memorial Park and Mortuary. Two Visitations were held on Monday, July 25, 2016 and Tuesday, July 26, 2016 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Glen Abbey Mortuary Chapel in Bonita, California. The Funeral Service was held on Wednesday, July 27, 2016 at 9:00 AM at Glen Abbey Mortuary Chapel, Bonita, California. Leonardo was laid to rest in Glen Abbey Memorial Park in Bonita, California on Wednesday, July 27, 2016

Simply stated, Leonardo was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being a caring and giving person, someone who was a vital part of their lives. Leonardo leaves behind the legacy of a loving family, life-long friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life he touched will always remember him.