Fidel S. Santiago

Fidel Sayo Santiago, originally from Quiapo, Manila, Philippines, passed away peacefully on November 21, 2025, at the age of 70, surrounded by the family he cherished with his whole heart.

Fidel was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend who touched the lives of many with his humility, quiet strength, and unwavering compassion. He lived a life guided by generosity, forgiveness, and deep devotion to others. Those who knew him will remember his gentle presence, his sincerity, and his ability to make others feel cared for and understood.

Fidel was a man who gave far more than he ever asked for. His generosity extended well beyond what was material—he shared his time, his patience, and his emotional support with anyone who needed it. He forgave easily, loved deeply, and always chose understanding over judgment. Many found comfort in his presence, and his home was always open to those who needed support.

Even during his final days, while enduring complications from multiple surgeries, Fidel’s instinct remained to care for others before himself. One of his first concerns was whether his wife had eaten—an expression of the same selflessness and love that shaped his entire life. His compassion, even in pain, was the clearest reflection of who he truly was.

A proud U.S. Navy veteran, Fidel served his country with honor and dedication for 20 years. After his military service, he continued to work hard to provide for his family, guided by the same discipline, commitment, and quiet resilience that defined his character.

Fidel was also a passionate sports fan who enjoyed traveling, fishing, playing billiards, and spending time with his grandchildren, who brought him tremendous joy. Known for preparing food and “slaving away in the kitchen” during the holidays, he cooked with love—often making the most out of what little he had—and he did it all with a smile. Holidays were especially meaningful to him; he was the one who brought the family together, set the tone of the celebration, and filled the home with warmth and excitement.

A man of deep faith, Fidel was a member of Saint Vincent Ferrer Catholic Church, where he found peace, strength, and community. His faith was the foundation of his life, grounding him in purpose and guiding how he served his family and community.

He was an active parishioner of Saint Vincent Ferrer, faithfully serving as a member of the Parish Financial Council and the Security Ministry. Fidel was also a Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus and a proud member of the Padre Pio Color Corps. From Columbian Year 2020 to 2025, he served with dedication as the Financial Secretary of Council 7846. Sir Knight Fidel Santiago’s legacy of service, faith, and volunteerism will be deeply missed by his brother Knights and the entire parish community.

Fidel is survived by his loving wife Shirley Santiago; his children Jeffrey, Michael, Philip, RJ, Maria Kristina, Tracy, Rommel, and Jennifer; his grandchildren Jrue, Gianna, Kyllie, Veronica, Sophia, Rocco, Ace, Leila, Jasmin, Agostino, Ysabella, Michael Jordan, Jerselle Ann, and Jaycee and his extended family and friends whose lives were touched by his generosity, warmth, and unwavering love. He was preceded in death by his parents, Enrique Santiago and Liwayway Julian.

Fidel lived a life that demonstrated:

• A generous heart

• A forgiving spirit

• A gentleman’s grace

• A life lived in service to others

He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Visitation

Monday, December 15, 2025

3:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Miller-Jones Menifee Memorial Park and Mortuary

26770 Murrieta Rd.

Menifee, CA 92585

Funeral Mass

Tuesday, December 16, 2025

11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Saint Vincent Ferrer Catholic Church

27931 Murrieta Rd

Menifee, CA 92586

Committal Service

Tuesday, December 16, 2025

1:45 PM – 2:15 PM

Riverside National Cemetery

22495 Van Buren Blvd

Riverside, CA 92518

In Lieu of Flowers

Donations may be made to GoFundMe.com or directly to the surviving spouse, Shirley Santiago.

His Parting Message to Us

From the traditional funeral poem, author unknown

“To Those I Love and Those Who Love Me”

When I am gone, release me, let me go—

I have so many things to see and do.

You mustn’t tie yourself to me with tears,

Be thankful for our beautiful years.

I gave to you my love. You can only guess

How much you gave to me in happiness…

I thank you for the love you each have shown,

But now it’s time I traveled on alone.

So grieve a while for me, if grieve you must,

Then let your grief be comforted by trust.

It’s only for a time that we must part,

So bless the memories within your heart.

I won’t be far away, for life goes on.

So if you need me, call and I will come.

Though you can’t see or touch me, I’ll be near—

And if you listen with your heart, you’ll hear

All my love around you, soft and clear.

And then, when you must come this way alone,

I’ll greet you with a smile, and say—

“Welcome Home!”

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/menifee-ca/fidel-santiago-12628007

https://gofund.me/6d971a1ac