Antonio Perdido Gonong

Professionally, Antonio led a life of service. As a young man, he graduated from the Philippine Maritime Institute followed by enlistment in the US Navy where he honorably served for 21 years including several years on the USS Nimitz. Throughout his military career he received five Good Conduct Awards, the Battle Efficiency “E” Award, National Defense Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal. After his military retirement, Antonio continued to serve another 23 years in the US Postal Service.

Antonio enjoyed sharing his Filipino heritage through membership in Ilocano USA (IUSA) and Pilipino-American Association of Tampa Bay (PAAT). He supported and volunteered many hours to the development of the Philippine Cultural Enrichment Complex (PCFI).

Antonio saw Corpus Christi Catholic Church as his spiritual home. Through God’s graces he was able to focus his later years in life with his family. Antonio spent practically everyday with his grandchildren helping to raise them and sharing his passion for fishing, cooking, gardening, and wood working.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his siblings, Senaida, Trinidad, Hermenia, Federico and Teresa.

Survivors include his loving wife of 59 years, Anita Gonong; daughters, Anthonette Carregal (Alan), Anne Marie Little (Robert) and Annette Diamond (Billy); and grandchildren, Alec Carregal, Ariel Carregal-Huff (Jared), Arden Carregal, Adam Little, Andrew Little, Alexia Diamond, Alyse Diamond and Aris Diamond.

The family will receive friends from 6-8 pm, Thursday, February 6, 2025 at Blount & Curry, Terrace Oaks Chapel, 12690 N. 56th St., Temple Terrace. A Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated at 10 am, Friday, February 7, 2025 at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, 9715 N. 56th St., Temple Terrace, followed by interment with military honors at Florida National Cemetery, 6502 SW 102nd Avenue, Bushnell.