Blazado, Benjamin Rebellon's Obituary
Benjamin R. Blazado, 85, of San Diego, California, passed away on December 27, 2024.
Born on September 7, 1939, in La Purisima, Nabua, Camarines Sur, Philippines, Ben was one of eight children in a family that endured the hardships of World War II. As one of the older children, he often took on a nurturing role, and there is a story that he assumed the responsibility of gently swaying the duyan (hammock) for his younger siblings while singing traditional Filipino lullabies to help them sleep.
In his youth, Ben enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1964. He served proudly aboard the heavy cruiser USS Newport News (CA-148) during the Vietnam War, earning a Combat Action Ribbon.
Ben married Rosario (Charing) Razon Grecia on January 10, 1970, and together they had two children, Benjamin Jr. and Charlene. The family settled in San Diego, where Ben later retired in 1984 as a Dental Technician, First Class (DT1).
After retiring, Ben and Charing returned to the Philippines, where they spent their early retirement years in Naga City. There, he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science at the University of Nueva Caceres in Naga City. He also enjoyed ballroom dancing with his beloved wife to the big band tunes of the 50s and 60s at Fleet Reserve Association parties.
A generous man, Ben helped many relatives pursue their education, including several who became nurses and one who became a doctor. He also played a pivotal role in helping many family members immigrate to the United States, ensuring they had the opportunity for a better life.
In his later years, Ben returned to San Diego, where he shared many memorable cross-country road trips with his son, ensuring his son would not fall asleep on his journeys to new duty stations. At home in San Diego, he found peace in the simple pleasures of life, eating Charing’s Pancit Bato, relaxing in the backyard with his battery-operated radio, enjoying the view of the valley and San Miguel Mountain.
Ben is survived by his loving wife, Charing; his son, Benjamin Jr., and his wife, Grace; two grandsons, Anthony and Alex; and his daughter, Charlene. He also leaves behind many relatives and friends who were touched by his generosity and kindness.
Rest in Peace ka na Daddy. Deri kita malilingawan sa pagkaboot at sakrifisyo mo sakuya at pamilya. Sobrang sobra…
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