Gregorio Bautista Buenviaje

Gregorio Bautista Buenviaje passed away peacefully on October 1, 2024, at the age of 84 in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Born on November 27, 1939, in Bulacan, Philippines, Gregorio was the son of Bernardo and Victoria Bautista Buenviaje. He grew up with his brother, Leon, and sister, Benilda, and was the last surviving member of his immediate family. Gregorio carried with him a deep connection to his roots and family, which shaped his life of devotion, love, and service.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Soledad Garcia Buenviaje, with whom he shared an enduring love story. Soledad passed away on their 55th wedding anniversary, July 17, 2016—a day that marked both the depth of their bond and Gregorio’s profound loss. For Gregorio, Soledad was the center of his world, and he missed her every day until his own passing. Together, they built a family that continues to carry on their legacy.

Gregorio is survived by his daughter, Zhamira, and three sons: Bernardo (Eleanor), Greg (Marla), and Leon. He will be missed dearly by his grandchildren, Krysten (Scott), Ethan, Lauren, Logan, Siri, Lee, and Victoria, along with his great-grandchildren, Paige, Skylar, Rylee, and Lennox.

Gregorio’s devotion to Soledad was most profoundly demonstrated during her battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). As her primary caregiver, he tenderly cared for her every need, ensuring her comfort and happiness even in the face of her illness. Whether it was making her laugh with playful gestures or warming her meals to perfection, Gregorio’s love knew no bounds. He even set the thermostat to 85°F during the blistering summer heat simply to make sure she was as comfortable as possible. Their bond, nurtured by the smallest acts of kindness, was a testament to their deep connection.

Beyond his devotion to his family, Gregorio also served his country with honor. A proud U.S. Navy veteran, he dedicated 20 years to military service, including during the Vietnam War. Rising to the rank of Senior Chief, he provided his family with invaluable life experiences during assignments in Oahu, Monterey, Annapolis, San Diego, Nantucket, and Hampton Roads. His career placed him in the company of high-ranking officials such as Admiral Mullen and Admiral Train, as well as NATO leaders, where he supported them with the same dedication he gave to his family.

Gregorio’s character was defined not only by his service but also by his infectious smile, booming voice, and exceptional talents in the culinary arts. Upon retiring from the Navy, he was offered a prestigious culinary position at the White House, but he chose instead to pursue his entrepreneurial spirit. One of his proudest achievements was helping to launch the New Spirit of Norfolk in 1983, a venture that showcased his leadership and passion. He also played a vital role in expanding Tidewater Coffee from a small coffee and tea delivery service into a thriving business that stretched from Virginia to Michigan.

In the years following Soledad’s passing, Gregorio found solace in the love of his family. He enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, creating new memories and sharing cherished stories. He often spoke of reuniting with Soledad in heaven—a reunion that he longed for and that brought him peace as he journeyed through his final years.

The family will receive friends at Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home, 2551 North Armistead Avenue, Hampton, Virginia, 23666, on Sunday, October 27, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with the memorial service starting at 6 PM. A funeral mass will occur Monday, October 28, 2024 at 10:00 AM at St. Matthew's Roman Catholic Church, 3314 Sandra Lane, Virginia Beach, VA 23464. Interment with full Military Honors will follow at Albert G. Horton Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery, 5310 Milners Road, Suffolk, VA 23434, at 1 PM.