Salvador Reyes Hipolito

Salvador "Badong" Reyes Hipolito was born on January 18, 1920 in Linga Pila Laguna, Philippines. He was married to Anicia for 33 years until she passed away at the age of 54. They had 8 children: 1 girl - Susan (San Diego) and 7 boys - Noli (Los Angeles), Jorge (San Diego) Ony, Nick, Joey and the late Rading and Gerry (Philippines). He was also blessed with 19 grandchildren. His highest form of education was only up to 6th grade. But, even with such little education, he successfully opened his own photo studio in the Philippines, which lasted over 50 years. He was able to provide his family a very comfortable life and ensured that his children's education were prioritized by sending them to private schools. He eventually helped establish a photography business for five of his sons and shared his knowledge to his relatives by educating them on how to run a business, particularly in the photography field. His efforts and assistance to his relatives bore tangible fruits as these family businesses are still around today. After Anicia, he got into a relationship with Viring, who died of cancer after 2 years of being together. After 3 years, he was also married to Sabina for a short time.

In 1991, he made his way to California and stayed with the family of his daughter, the Valenton's. While there, he took care of his two grandchildren, Mark and Ali. He loved to go places, and not having learned how to drive did not stop him from getting out of the house. He would often walk around the neighborhood with Ali, even go to Tooma Park where he would watch her play. As a hobby, he often visited the KP hall in National City which is a senior citizens dance hall. That's where he met Ceria, his long time girlfriend. He loved to dance! He also enjoyed watching movies - the classics from the AMC channel and TFC (The Filipino Channel) were his favorite stations.

Salvador was a very kind, generous and selfless person. But, the characteristic that stood out the most was his joyful spirit. He was known for his smile. He had so much joy in his heart. The main contributor to his joy, especially in the last years of his life, came from having Jesus as his Lord and Savior. His love for Christ translated in the way he lived. Despite of his health issues, he was always appreciative of everything he was given and he never complained. Even in the most uncomfortable circumstances such as being in the hospital or just being sick, he somehow managed to smile through it. In 2009, at the age of 89, he went to Reo Vista Health Care Center and stayed there for 3 years. His faith in God allowed him to have the peace and joy that he had. What a great example for all of us that he left behind.