March 20, 1932 - December 19, 2023
It is with heartfelt sadness to announce the passing of Pascual Arca Fidel on December 19, 2023. He was reunited in heaven with his wife of 71 years, Catherine, who passed away one month earlier.
Pascual (affectionately known as Pas) was born in El Centro, CA on March 20, 1932 to Pascual Lara Fidel, of Ilocos, Philippines and to Conchy Arca of Kauai, Hawaii. He is survived by his five children Victoria, Duane (Donna), Philip(Ricky Stone), Eric (Sherri) and Connie (Mark Schlitt); his grandchildren Erik( Rachel Smith), Courtney and Elias; and his great grandson Theo. He is also survived by his brother Jose, sister Venancia Patron and nephews David(Natalie), Patrick, and Conrad.
Pas was raised in Stockton, CA. He attended Edison High School and Stockton College where he met Catherine. They were married in 1952. He received his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from UC Berkeley. He then earned his teaching credential from the University of the Pacific in Stockton, CA. Later in life he obtained his Master’s degree in cultural anthropology from CSU Sacramento.
In 1962, Pas relocated his family to Rancho Cordova, CA to pursue his teaching career. He taught at Kit Carson Jr High School in East Sacramento. In 1974 he taught at Luther Burbank High School in Sacramento until his retirement in 1992.
Having lived 60+ years in the area and having raised his five children, Pas fell in love with the Rancho Cordova community. He was a hands-on father who immersed himself in his children’s many school, sports, music, community, and social activities. His deep commitment and dedication to family continues to inspire not only his children but all who knew him. He was a role model to many.
In his so-called “free-time” Pas avidly pursued his passions and interests. He attained a 2nd degree black belt in Kenpo style Karate. He also practiced Arnis, also known as Eskrima, the national martial art of the Philippines. He was active in the Filipino American National Historical Society and the St John Vianney Parish in Rancho Cordova. Books of varying subjects and genres, fiction and nonfiction lined every shelf in every room of his home. Well into his 80’s there was always a front and center spot reserved just for him at his gym’s Zumba class.
The spotlight always seemed to find Pascual. Yet somehow he always managed to redirect the rays so that they shone more brightly on others. In both direct and subtle ways, he empowered everyone in his orbit to hone their skills and find their voices to become the best that they can be. He exuded warmth and generosity. Pas was hardworking, ambitious, yet humble, successful and principled. He possessed a softer, sentimental side as well. Pas will be greatly missed for the ways he touched us all and for having left the world a better place.
Funeral Services:
Saturday January 20, 2024 11:00 am
Saint John Vianney Parish
10497 Coloma Rd.
Rancho Cordova, Ca. 95670
~ In lieu of flowers, Catherine J. Fidel Scholarship donations accepted and made to :
Duane Fidel
100 Allerton Ct.
Folsom, CA. 95630
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Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Fidel family.