Phil Cano

Phil Cano was born on February 3, 1935 and was raised in the Philippines. He grew up with six siblings. His father was an agriculturist and his mother was a teacher. While studying mechanical engineering, he decided to enlist in the US Navy. During his 20 years of service, he was assigned to a number of vessels and was stationed all over the world. But, if you asked him what his biggest accomplishment was, he would say it was marrying the love of his life Elisa Coronel. They got married on June 20, 1970 in Reno, Nevada.

After years of living in Washington D.C., they traded-in the snow and cold weather for sunny San Diego, where he would retire from his military career. He continued his civil service working for SPAWAR Systems San Diego for 20 years. When it came to retire, Phil was ready to enjoy life. He embarked on a number of cruises touring the world. He joined pilgrimages that took him all over Europe. He was also behind the wheel during a number of cross-country road trips. At home, when he was not going to the Navy Exchange with Elisa and their nieces, he loved betting on horses. He could sit at a slot or keno machine for hours.

For years he served as an usher for St. Charles Catholic Church and would eventually become a 4th degree member of the Knights of Columbus.

"Papa Phil" or Uncle Phil (as others called him) went to be with the Lord on June 28, 2015. He is survived by his wife Elisa, his sister Minda and her husband Renato, and their kids; and his brother Andy and his wife Laling, and their children. He was also dearly loved by his sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, and grandkids.

His parents and four siblings have preceded him in death.

The viewing will be on July 9th and 10th from 5-9 pm at the Funeraria del Angel Humphrey in Chula Vista. The funeral mass will be at noon on July 11 at St. Rose of Lima in Chula Vista and will be officiated by Fr. Jim Bahash. Phil will be laid to rest at Greenwood Memorial Park, San Diego immediately after the funeral mass.