Rogelio Tumbagahan de Ruña

Rogelio Tumbagahan de Ruña, who departed this life peacefully, on June 10, 2026, was born to Gerardo de Ruña and Felicidad Tumbagahan de Ruña, a tailor and a homemaker, in Iloilo City, Philippines on April 12, 1941. Roger was one of four children in the de Ruña household. He was the youngest boy, who enjoyed playing outside, and was close to his sisters. Being analytical, paired with his passion and knowledge of math, led him to attend The University of Santo Tomas in Manila where he studied engineering. With his continued hard work and dedication, he knew that one day he would become an architect or engineer. While at the University of Santo Tomas he met the love of his life. Little did he know he would someday marry her and have a family of their own.

Roger was blessed with a large and loving family. He married his best friend, Jesusa Bondoc Mallari, on January 7, 1967. Roger helped raise his four children with patience, discipline, and love. Roger also taught them about family, humility, and hard work. He was a talented bowler and enjoyed bowling at McKee Bowl twice a week. Each summer he would travel to Reno with his team, “The Go For Its”, and play in their annual tournament. Roger cherished family trips such as Disneyland, various camping sites, Canada, Alaskan cruises, and the Philippines.

Roger was a dedicated and hard worker who worked at various companies throughout the Bay Area–Gurries & Okamoto, Flour Daniel, and Parsons Brinkerhoff, where he retired. He worked as a mechanical engineer and had a passion for drafting and mechanics. One could easily see that he truly enjoyed his work.

Roger, also known as Dad, grandpa, or Papa, was a man of few words, but enjoyed the activities around him. He genuinely loved watching his grandchildren grow and would attend their games and recitals. He would fondly watch them as they played together in the backyard, run chaotically around the house, or open gifts during the holidays.

Roger is survived by his four children Vincent Raymond, James Byron, Charles Jason, and Janelle Mallari; his grandchildren, Andre, Nicholas, Malia, Liam, Matias; and his sister, Melly Badilla. He is preceded in death by his wife, Jesusa Mallari de Ruña, his brother Ernesto de Ruña, his sister Sally Fuentes, and his parents. Roger’s memory will remain in the hearts of his family, friends, and all those who knew him. His kindness, generosity, and devotion to his family are cherished traits that will never be forgotten. Dad, we will always love you and miss you, as you are forever in our hearts.