Exequiel Gaffud 's Obituary
Exequiel L. Gaffud was born in Isabela, Iligan Philippines on July 2nd, 1937 and was called home at 82 on May 7th, 2020. He passed with his family by his side.
He was the eldest of 9 children. Siblings Arturo, Gloria, Sergio, Meynardo, Hector, Zenaida,Socorro, and Edilberto to late parents Arturo M. and Socorro L. Gaffud. Five siblings had proceeded his death.
Exequiel lived through the Japanese Empire during WWII till the age of 5. Whitnessed bombing ofhis hometown and the loss of their property.
Growing up in the Philippines Exequiel was involved in ROTC while in college studying medicine tobecome a doctor. He married Elvira M. Esteybar and was unable to complete his studies as hisfamily migrated to the United States to live permanently.
While residing in San Diego, he married Dolores E. Gaffud.He had 7 children: Elmer, Maria, Elvira, Eric, Corazon, Racquel, and Victoria.15 grandchildren: Christopher, Eileen, Elesha, Jazael, Mariza, Shannon, Adam, Kairah, Keian,Khalil, Catherine, Oren, ka'iulani, Neeko, and Keoni.8 great grandchildren: Daniel, Dominic, Desmen, Keahi, Riley, Easton, Lyric, and Arden.
Exequiel was employed at Golden Arrow as a milkman. He wanted to go to chef school as he loved cooking but instead, worked at Plaza Bowl as a bartender. Later, was employed at SheratonHotel as lead bartender where he became Employee of the Year, and invented 'Quiel's Punch' which was added to the menu at the Sundowner Lounge. Prior to Exequiel's retirement, he was employed at Sycuan Casino as a poker dealer.
Through God and prayer, he was the ultimate fighter. He survived open heart surgery, followed by hemodyalisis of 15 years, bypass artery surgeries and ending an above the knee amputation defying all odds. Exequiel was strong till the very end.
Exequiel was a showman. He was witty, charismatic, funny, and a great story teller. He enjoyed bowling, fishing, and singing karaoke.Later in life he enjoyed playing poker, mahjong, and most of all spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Exequiel was well respected, loved, and touched so many lives. He will be forever missed. His legacy will live on by all the countless memories.
Due to the Funeral Home restrictions, a private service will be held. He will be laid to rest in Greenwood Mortuary on Thursday May 14th, 2020.
On behalf of the Gaffud Family, I would like to thank all our family and friends for your continued thoughts, love and prayers.In lieu of flowers, aggrieved family is accepting monetary donations to help with the burial service.
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