Carl Lucien Abella Labayan was born on June 10, 1957, at Seaside Hospital in Long Beach, California, to Lourdes Abella and Crispin Labayan. He attended Sts. Peter and Paul Elementary School and St. Anthony High School. Carl spent his childhood in Wilmington, California, where his days were filled with playing marbles and spending time with friends.
He also developed an early fascination with fireworks and was known to have burned down a field or two. His supply of firecrackers was often replenished after family camping trips to Ensenada. Carl and his cousin Kelly would somehow manage to unload the camper of its fireworks—without any of the adults knowing.
Many of Carl’s evenings were spent at Cove Bowl, where he earned money keeping score while his father bowled and his sister handed out Blue Chip stamps. Weekends were often dedicated to bowling competitions, with his father driving Carl and his sister to tournaments. Bowling became much more than a pastime; it became a lifelong passion.
After high school, Carl enlisted in the United States Navy. His exceptional mathematical ability led to numerous certificates, assessments, and specialized assignments, including service aboard a nuclear submarine. The long periods spent underwater gave rise to many stories about how he managed to survive below the surface for so long. Those stories may also explain why he was so good at BeanBoozled—if you know, you know.
After completing his military service, Carl held many different jobs. However, they all served a common purpose: helping fund his love of bowling. He became a member of the Professional Bowlers Association, continued competing, and helping others by drilling and coaching just days before his passing.
Carl’s greatest blessing came in 2009, when he began dating Maria Santos. She brought true love and happiness into his life. They married in November 2017 on the beautiful island of Santorini, Greece, surrounded by friends and family members, especially their parents, who shared in the unforgettable destination wedding.
Their wedding was only one of the many trips Carl and Maria shared. Their travels often included food, family and friends, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come.
Family was always an important part of Carl’s life. He never failed to wish his sister a happy birthday. Madden came to expect chocolate Donettes whenever Carl was around, and Matthew was introduced to Dr Pepper at a very early age.
Carl will be remembered for his intelligence, sense of humor, love of food, travel adventures, dedication to bowling, and deep love for his family and friends. His stories, laughter, and the memories he created will continue to live on in the hearts of everyone who knew and loved him.
Carl was preceded in death by his brother, Crispin Jr.; his father, Crispin; and his mother, Lourdes.
He is survived by his loving wife, Maria; his devoted dog, Kona; his sister, Dorie (Sam); his brother, Jason Monzon; his nephews, Samson (Caitlin) and Crispin (Kat); his grandnephews, Madden and Matthew; and his grandnieces, Poppy and Callie, granddog Goldie, along with a host of relatives and friends.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for the love, support, and prayers shared during this difficult time.
