Ferdinand "Fred" Tumacder Luis Sr.

Ferdinand “Fred” Tumacder Luis Sr. passed away peacefully on June 8, 2025, in San Jose, California, surrounded by the love and presence of his family after a sudden medical emergency. He was 68 years old.

Born on August 14, 1956, in Babak, Davao City, Philippines, Fred lived a life marked by quiet strength, deep humility, and a heart full of unwavering devotion to those he loved. He didn’t seek the spotlight, but everyone who knew him felt the light he carried within.

Fred came to San Jose in 1979, chasing the promise of a new life with nothing but determination, hard work, and the steady hope that he could build something better—for himself and, one day, for his family. In August 1985, through a simple introduction by his older brother Howard, he met Amrecrosela—the woman who would become the love of his life, his best friend, and his forever partner. What began as a simple introduction soon grew into a love story that would span nearly four beautiful decades. They married on January 3, 1986, and together, they created a home filled with laughter, devotion, warmth, and a love that spoke louder than words.

Fred’s passions were as rich and varied as his personality. In his younger days, he was a skilled martial artist and an excellent bowler. But Fred’s joyful spirit never dimmed with age—he was always ready to sing his heart out at karaoke, enjoy a delicious plate of Filipino food, or raise a glass of scotch in good company. A dedicated WWE wrestling fan, he also loved watching Deadliest Catch, American Chopper, action films, and, more recently, Chinese dramas on YouTube. Whether cheering for the 49ers, Raiders, Warriors, or Giants, Fred was fiercely loyal to the teams he loved—just as he was to his family and friends.

But more than anything else, Fred’s heart belonged to his family. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, and a source of steady comfort and strength for his sons, Ferdinand Jr. and Philip. He found joy in life’s simplest moments—meals shared around the table, long conversations, laughter echoing through the house, and quiet time spent side by side. During the pandemic, he and his eldest son built a home gym together—not just to stay active, but to stay close. These were the moments he cherished most.

Fred worked with quiet dignity throughout his life, from his early days in retail and manufacturing to becoming a skilled cable technician at Comcast, where his dedication and humility earned him the admiration of many. After retiring in 2020, he embraced a life of rest and service. With his wife, Fred gave back through their involvement with Alpha Sigma Phi (Alphans), the co-ed fraternity of the Philippines. In 2022, he was honored as an honorary member of ASPPICSO at the 23rd National Biennial Convention in Siargao—recognition for a man who gave selflessly, expected little, and always showed up when it mattered.

Fred never needed grand gestures to show his love. He spoke through action—through presence, through patience, through quiet, steadfast care. He was the calm in the storm, the gentle laughter in the background, the quiet rock you could always lean on.

As his family says, “He loved out loud through action, not words. His legacy is in the calm, patient love he gave us—steadfast, sincere, and always present.” Fred will be remembered for the love he gave without condition, the strength he carried with grace, and the peace he brought to every room. His presence was a gift, and his spirit lives on in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Amrecrosela Luis; his devoted sons, Ferdinand Tumacder Luis Jr. and Philip Jose Sun Luis; his cherished daughters-in-law, Janelle Luis and Shannon Risk; and his beloved siblings, Howard Luis, Walter Luis, and Aloha Luis. He is now reunited in peace with his parents, Antero and Mercedes Luis, and his siblings, Gilbert Luis and Meiland Cutar.

Though he has left this world, Fred’s love surrounds us still. His example will continue to guide and ground us. And his memory will forever be our blessing.

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🕯️ Funeral Arrangements

Wake

📍 Willow Glen Mortuary

1039 Lincoln Ave, San Jose, CA 95125

🗓️ Friday, June 20 | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM PST

A limited virtual option will be shared closer to the date.

Funeral Service & Burial

📍 Willow Glen Mortuary (Service)

📍 Oak Hill Memorial Park (Burial)

300 Curtner Ave, San Jose, CA 95125

🗓️ Saturday, June 21 | Service begins at 10:00 AM; Burial to follow

No virtual link is planned for the burial ceremony.

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💐 In Lieu of Flowers

The family kindly asks that donations be made to the GoFundMe set up in Fred’s honor:

🔗 gofund.me/cbd47ff1

Proceeds will go toward funeral and memorial costs; any remaining funds will be donated to charity in his name.

Fred Luis was a man of few words, infinite patience, and unwavering love. His jokes, his songs, his quiet strength, and his selfless care for others will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

“He was our calm. Our constant. Our home.”