In Loving Memory of Romeo Rabara Paiste
April 13, 1951 - January 17, 2024
Romeo Rabara Paiste, 72, passed away on January 17th, 2024, surrounded by his family at his bedside in Lodi, California. Born on April 13th, 1951, in Bantay, Ilocos Sur, Philippines, he was the third eldest among 10 siblings to Pedro Pigao Paiste and Francisca Rabara Paiste. In the mid-1970s, Romeo immigrated to the United States, seeking new opportunities to build a better life for his family. Over time, he settled down in Lodi, California and started a family of his own.
In 1978, Romeo married his beloved wife, Jesusa Cardenas Balanza. Throughout their marriage, Romeo and Jesusa lovingly raised their three children and warmly welcomed their respective companions into the family: Leilani Balanza Paiste Abellera and her husband, Dexter Abellera; Jane Balanza Paiste, accompanied by her husband, Cristian Poblete Gonzalez, and their adored canine companion, Delilah; and Jamie Ryan Paiste, who is engaged to Jazmin Lomeli Ramirez. Romeo also treasured his role as a grandfather to five grandchildren: Jordan Mark Abellera, Jacob Dylan Abellera, Kayla Jayne Abellera, Romeo Alexander Paiste, and Dominic Joseph Paiste.
Romeo was a man of humble beginnings and was known as an exceptionally hard worker. He worked long hours in various labor-intensive jobs across different industries throughout his years in the United States. These industries included agriculture, where he picked and pruned fruits and vegetables in California and Arizona. He also worked in the canning industry, processing salmon in Alaska and peaches in California. Additionally, he worked in the manufacturing industry, processing a variety of products such as car seats, Duraflame products, and paper-based packaging products throughout California as well. Romeo's strong work ethic and dedication were all driven by the noble purpose of providing for his family.
Romeo was not only a diligent provider for his family, but also a culinary maestro in the kitchen. Selflessly, he would create a plethora of dishes upon request, delighting both his immediate and extended family. The consistent and delectable quality of his culinary creations became a testament to his skill and the love he poured into every meal. Furthermore, his freezer was always stocked with a variety of carefully chosen meats and fresh vegetables, reflecting his dedication to providing wholesome and flavorful meals. This practice left a lasting legacy that extended beyond his role as a dedicated worker and family man.
In his spare time, one of Romeo’s notable hobbies was maintaining his garden, lawn, and plants around his home. Drawing upon the knowledge acquired through years of experience in his agricultural roles, his gardens flourished with an abundance of fruits and vegetables. His lawn was meticulously cared for and the plants, under his watchful eye, thrived with vitality. Additional activities Romeo participated in included spending time with his siblings laughing about the good times in life, discussing sports updates with his brothers, engaging in casino escapades with loved ones, and playing Mahjong with friends and family throughout the evening.
Beyond his talents and hobbies, Romeo's life was a testament to the values of hard work, perseverance, modesty, and the importance of family. Genuinely proud of his family members’ accomplishments, he supported his family whenever anyone was in need. His heart was rich with kindness, generosity, and love, touching the lives of those around him with his kind spirit and gentle nature. A simple man, he possessed a quiet strength that spoke volumes through his actions, signifying quality, integrity, honor, and respect.
In paying tribute to his legacy, let us continue to embrace the valuable lessons he shared, aspiring to lead lives infused with the timeless virtues of love, dedication, and humility that defined the extraordinary journey of Romeo Rabara Paiste. May he find eternal peace.
In Loving Memory of Romeo Rabara Paiste
Services:
Friday, 2/23/2024: Rosary
• Time: 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
o Rosary: 5:00 PM
• Location: Cherokee Memorial Park, Vineyard Chapel
• Address: 14165 Beckman Road, Lodi, CA 95240
Saturday, 2/24/2024: Funeral Service
• Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
o Committal Service: 12:00 PM at the Garden of Angels
• Location: Cherokee Memorial Park
• Address: 14165 Beckman Road, Lodi, CA 95240
Please leave your condolences below.
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Paiste family.