He was born in San Narciso, Zambales, Philippines on March 24, 1951 to Cesario Fababier Sr. and Julita Febrero Fababier. He was the youngest boy out of his 4 siblings earning himself the nickname “Boy.”
In 1968, Leonard graduated from high school, Magsaysay Memorial College. He went on to attend Feati University in Manila, where he studied chemical engineering. He continued his studies at Lorraine Technical School in Olongapo, Zambales where he studied air conditioning and refrigeration.
In the Philippines, he worked primarily as a rice farmer and secondary as a tricycle driver. In addition, he would tend to his family’s clothing store and restaurant to help make ends meet. He then joined the Philippine Army and served for a few years before coming to America in 1979. Soon after arriving to Oxnard, CA Leonard joined the United States Navy.
Leonard met the love of his life and wife Estrella in Oxnard, CA. The two were neighbors and became pen pals during his deployment. On May 16, 1981 Leonard and Estrella married in Port Hueneme, Oxnard CA.
In August 1981, he got stationed and moved to San Diego, CA where he would spend his remaining years.
Leonard served the United States Navy as a Machinist Mate First Class Petty Officer. He retired in August 1999 after serving 20 years in the United States Navy. Through his service in the USN, he was able to provide for his family and set a foundation for their future.
Leonard enjoyed gardening, fishing, cooking his favorite foods (pancit, dinuguan, pinakbet, adobo, papaitan, and kilawin kalding), watching sports such as basketball/football, and playing the lotto. He adored his grandchildren who brought out a softer side of him. He was fond of cats and took care of cats found in the neighborhood. In addition, he was a handy man and always fixed things around the house, whether it would be the cars, water leaks, appliances, etc.
Leonard’s family described him as selfless, “happy go lucky”, caring, strong willed, jokester, stubborn, and generous. He was the glue that held our families together through numerous occasions. He was the toughest guy we knew, but he also had a compassionate side.
He lived a simple life and took great pride in being able to provide for others. He was the type of person that would feed everyone else before he would eat. He was always willing to help others and was concerned for everyones well being.
He is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Estrella. Sons Leonard, Shane, and daughter Vanessa. His son Lee residing in San Narciso, Zambales Philippines. He is survived by his siblings: Cesar Jr., Dominador, Leonilo, and Lolita. Leonard has 4 beautiful grandchildren: Christianne, Chrysleen Jan, Chrystel Flor, & Lily Jae. He leaves behind 7 nieces and 7 nephews. Through his example and acts of kindness he will leave a lasting legacy that will forever remain in the hearts of his friends & family.
Leonard will be laid to rest at Miramar National Cemetery.
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