John was born on April 8, 1947, in Manila, Philippines, to Johnnie and Corazón. He grew up in Quezon City, Manila, with his five siblings: Romeo, Juliet, Gilda, Mercy, and James, who shared his early years.
In 1970, John came to Santa Clara, California, to live with his great-aunt and begin a new chapter in his life. It was in Santa Clara that he met Emmanuela, who lived just a couple of houses away. Their chance meeting grew into a lifetime of togetherness. John and Emma were married for 55 years, building a good life together with his family in the town he would call home for the rest of his life.
John served in the United States Navy from 1965 to 1968 during the Vietnam War. He made many lifelong friends during his time in the Navy. He was especially proud to use the G.I. Bill to get his A.S. degree in 1973 from West Valley College, and his B.S. in Business Administration/Finance at San Jose State University in 1977.
John dedicated 28 years to the United States Postal Service, before retiring at the age of 55 in 2003. Retirement gave him more time to enjoy the things he loved —especially playing golf, going to the Santa Clara senior center, and spending time with family. He enjoyed golfing regularly at Moffett Field and looked forward to participating in the annual Philippine Airlines Golf Tournament, where he served as team captain since 2001.
John was a loving husband to Emma and a proud father to his only child, Elissa. He was a beloved Papa who adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He especially enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s activities when he could, and cheering them on at their softball, soccer, flag football games and dance recitals. He was a proud dad and Papa who would brag about his family’s accomplishments, big or small.
John is survived by his beloved wife, Emma; his only daughter, Elissa (and husband Terry); his cherished grandchildren, Jessalyn (and husband Michael), Kalliana, and Mariella; and great-grandchildren, Raelyn and Trayce. He is also survived by his siblings, Gilda, Mercy and James.
John will be remembered for his devotion to family, his generous heart, his quiet strength, and his sense of humor. His family will cherish his memory forever.
John will be missed dearly by all those who loved him.
