Eleuterio "Ely" Rodanilla Brillo

Eleuterio “Ely” Rodanilla Brillo was born on May 26, 1942 in Cotobato City, Philippines, one of eight children of William and Asuncion Brillo. Growing up in humble beginnings in the Philippines, his parents instilled in him values of hard work, determination, and strength that he carried with him his entire life.

Ely proudly served in the United States Navy, and over the course of his 21 years of active duty service, he overcame adversity, conflict, and showed courage and honor during his time, achieving the rank of E-7 Chief, serving in Vietnam, and traveling all around the world before settling into his command with the Navy Medical Center San Diego, where he would not only finish his active duty career, but transition into his civilian career where he served an additional 21 years of proud service. For his service to our country, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, multiple good conduct awards, three Meritorious Unit Commendations, RVN Meritorious Unit Commendation Gallantry Cross, Vietnam Service Medal, RVN Civil Action Ribbon, and an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal.

Ely married Dulce Baldovino on July 29, 1967 in Manila, Philippines. Over the course of their 53 years of loving marriage, they overcame hardships from transitioning into life in the United States by ensuring that family came first, and never forgetting the help they received from so many friends and family. He is survived by his wife, his sons Justin and Brian, their wives Karen and Emily, and his four grandchildren Mateo, Laela, Charlotte and Claire. Working a second job as an automobile mechanic for many years, Ely was a proud supporter and provider for his family, instilling in his sons the value of hard work, determination, and strength that was passed onto him from his parents. He often proudly remarked about the achievements his sons Justin and Brian earned throughout their educational and professional careers in medicine and Navy civilian service, respectively.

Ely was a proud grandfather, spending every opportunity to pass on his love and passion for life to Mateo, Laela, Charlotte and Claire, whom he loved dearly. He was a loyal brother, uncle, cousin, and friend to many people, from all over the world, taking every moment to call, message, and share stories with those he loved. He will be remembered for his many stories about his life, his passion for his family, enjoyment for hobbies such as fishing, tennis and judo, and conversations with those who were lucky to have spent time with him. Ely passed away on December 31, 2020, and while he will be missed, his memory will live on for generations to come.