Jose M Morales

Jose ‘Bong’ Matias Morales was a modest man, quiet and observant in his ways. He was trustworthy and traditional in his approach to his life and in his relationships. He was tough-minded with the kind of “stick to it” attitude that earned the respect of all who knew him. He was also a man who was meticulous, carefully disciplined, and orderly in virtually everything he undertook. Realistic about life, he was always at the ready, prepared to take on responsibility.

Bong was born on June 18, 1944 in Tondo, Manila, in the Philippines . His parents were Jose Morales Sr and Modeta Morales. Bong was raised in Manila, Philippines. He was brought up to be self-confident and dependable. These were traits that would serve him well throughout his life.

Growing up in the Morales household was a bit different than most homes. There were good times to be had, but just as often there was a fair share of challenges as well. However, Bong was able to work through the usual family problems when they appeared, and he was the one person in the family who seemed able to keep the stress at bay. Bong was raised with nine siblings. Nenita, Julita, Manolo, Lorenzita, Raymunda, Francisco, Emilio, Ruben, and Roque. Bong was constantly involved in activities with his brothers and sisters. Bong and his siblings may have had the typical rivalries while growing up but Bong was always consistently loyal to his family.

As a young child, Bong was never someone who needed to be the center of attention. He wasn’t pushy and never forced his way into games or other activities. Bong developed a variety of interests, though, and the things he enjoyed doing he did well. He was always curious about the world around him and was often eager to explore it. He was a Sacristan at Quaipo Church. In his spare time he liked to read comic books. Bong's memorable achievements included becoming High School Valedictorian when he graduated from Saint James Academy in Malabon, Philippines in 1963. However, what Bong enjoyed most was simply playing and spending time with his many friends.

On August 6, 1967 Bong exchanged wedding vows with Filipina Zafra Calderon at the Cainta Catholic Church of Rizal, Philippines. Compassionate and devoted to Filipina Calderon Morales, Bong held endearing, traditional values about marriage and family life. He took the responsibility of marriage to heart, giving it his total commitment. He was a source of strength to Filipina Calderon Morales and using his gifts at nurturing one-on-one relationships, he worked hard to make his new family happy.

Bong brought the same traditional values in his marriage to bear on how he raised his children. He was a good parent to them, always firm yet fair in his dealings. Bong was blessed with three children; Luis, Jose III, Francisco. They were also blessed with four grandchildren; Samantha, Angelo Miguel, Mark Jacob, Lorenzo.

Bong found pleasure in sports. Recreational sports included playing tennis. He would watch his favorite sporting events whenever he got the opportunity. Tops on his list were basketball and football.

Bong was a man who was dedicated and devoted to his faith. He was a member of the Catholic Church all his life. During that time, he served as Sacristan during high school. He was a sympathetic man who valued his beliefs and was willing to work tirelessly for them.

Bong was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. One of Bong’s favorites was Dinky the Dachshund. They were best friends for 10 years. Other pets included his pug Poogie.

When Bong’s retirement finally arrived in 2011, he was well prepared. He always trusted and placed value in what was logical and in the things he knew, so he was very confident in planning his retirement. His new life involved relocating to Manila, Philippines. Even in retirement, Bong continued to stay in touch with his old friends while making plenty of new acquaintances. Jose Matias Morales passed away on February 27, 2019 at Las Vegas, Nevada. He is survived by his wife Filipina, Sons: Luis Jose III, and Francisco. His grandchildren: Samantha, Miguel, Markand Enzo. His Siblings: Zita Det, Emil and Kit. Services were held at Palm Northwest Mortuary. Bong was laid to rest in Palm Northwest Cemetery.

Commitment is a key word that can be used to describe the life of Jose Matias Morales. He was committed to living the life of a good man who was both practical and trustworthy. He was committed to the traditional values that he upheld his entire life. He committed himself to being a hard worker who expected the same effort in return from those around him. Most of all, he was committed to those he knew and loved.