Emilio T. Gumabong, Jr.

Emilio, was fondly called “Bong” by family and all his friends. He was born on August 28, 1947, in Iloilo City, Philippines. He married Elsie Trinidad, a nurse by profession. They have three children, Elaine, Erick and Kenneth. Bong has been so very proud of his five grandsons, Jonathan, Jaden, Saxon, Ethan and Max.

Bong had a passion for the sea and the ocean and as such has travelled worldwide since the young age of 19. He worked with different international shipping companies. He completed his Nautical Course and graduated at the Iloilo Maritime Academy. He worked his way up to be a licensed Chief Mate next to a Captain in international seafaring vessels.

The family migrated to the U.S. in June 1988. Once residing in the United States, he worked in inter-island vessels so he could be close to home and the family.

His other passion was cooking. He was not much of a fan for American/Italian cuisine, but always favored Philippine foods. He would cook by the potful and would call in-laws, cousins and very close friends to come to the house to eat. Almost every weekend was some sort of a feast at home. Everyone always looked forward to his authentic “Lapaz Batchoy.”

Bong is preceded in death by both his parents and a younger sister. He is survived by his wife Elsie, three children; Erick, Elaine, Kenneth and his five grandchildren. He is survived by one sister, Emilia in the Philippines, and several nieces and nephews.

Any donation in memory of Emilio T. Gumabong, Jr. will be greatly appreciated. Please send donations to: Houston Food Bank, 535 Portwall St.,

Houston, TX 77029 Tel. (713) 223-3700.