Ely Villaranda Taopo

left this world and was called to meet his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on October 22, 2021 at

the age of 76.

He was born to Julian and Leonila Taopo on November 25, 1944 in Catanduanes, Philippines.

While in college, he met the love of his life Erlinda. The two married and welcomed their son

Edwin to the world. His desire to provide for his family led them to move across the globe in

pursuit of the America Dream. They settled in Homestead, Florida in 1976.

He started his own lawn maintenance company and proudly serviced the Homestead Air

Reserve Base and several federal facilities for over 2 decades.

Ely was a simple man that loved working in the yard, playing mahjong and especially fishing. He

always had a way of catching fish when others couldn’t and took great joy in sharing his bounty.

He was hard working, generous, and always placed family first. He had a unique sense of

humor and loved to joke around. However, he knew when to be serious. Many looked up to

him for advice, guidance and affectionately called him “Taytay,” meaning grandpa.

He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Erlinda; son, Edwin; daughter in law, Midnitte; grandson,

Tyler; granddaughter, Natalie; siblings Domingo, Salome, Isidro, Roberto, Pedro; and many

nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visiting hours are from 2 pm to 6 pm, on October 30, 2021 at Caballero Rivero Palms

Woodlawn.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.palmswoodlawnnaranja.com for the TAOPO family.