Pio Farin Alcala Jr. was born to Pio Alcala and Severa Farin on November 12, 1932, in San Marcelino, Zambales, Philippines. Pio was youngest boy of four (4) siblings – a younger sister, older brother, and older half-sister. Pio was mentored and disciplined by his father throughout his younger years helping him become the man he was. Pio had dreams of becoming a doctor, but God led him on a different path.
In high school, a special young lady by the name of Olympia Cabatit caught the attention of Pio. She was shy and timid, but very intelligent and pretty. Pio courted her by leaving notes in her books, but Oly’s priority was focused on education. Pio did not give up as he continued to profess his love to Oly with love letters and beautiful serenades. By their junior year in high school, Oly caved into his kind gestures and officially became a couple as boyfriend and girlfriend. Unfortunately, their relationship ended abruptly because Oly left for college and communication between them ended for four (4) years. As Oly worked on her college studies, Pio enlisted into the United States Navy at Sangley Point, Luzon, Philippines on August 11, 1955. While learning to become a United States Sailor, he realized how much he missed and loved Olympia. He ended up reigniting his relationship with Oly and they were happily married on November 7, 1959.
Together they endured the navy life and were stationed at various military installations. Pio faithfully served at several commands to include: NRTC San Diego, CA; NTC Bainbridge, MD; NAVSTA Newport RI; MCP Camp Pendleton, CA; 3rd Battalion, 4th Marines, 1st Brigade Division (FMF); 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines, 1st Brigade Division (FMF); NAVSTA San Diego, CA; NAVDRUREHCEN Miramar, CA; NOTS China Lake, CA. Throughout Pio’s naval career, they made lasting friendships that still exist today. While stationed in Japan, Pio and Oly welcomed the birth of their daughter Angelina Olympia Alcala on November 10, 1967. Then, almost 5 years later when stationed in San Diego, California, their son Ariel Cabatit Alcala was born on May 20, 1972. It was then that Pio and Oly decided to call San Diego home.
After 20 years in the US Navy, Pio retired as a Chief Petty Officer. During his navy tenure, he was the recipient of the Army Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal (2), and Good Conduct Medal (5). Shortly after leaving the US Navy he started a new career as a Purchasing Agent with the Veterans Administration (VA) Hospital in La Jolla, CA. Pio worked for 20 years and retired in 1994. One year later, Oly retired from her career at Unisys and they began a new life of retirement. They spent their time on adventures taking them to places like the Mediterranean, Europe, Middle East, Caribbean, Mexico, Canada, and various states within the United States. Pio welcomed his first and only granddaughter Abigail Cynmae Alcala (daughter of Ariel and Cynthia Alcala) on June 21, 2002. Abigail was Pio’s princess and spoiled her every chance he got as most grandfathers would do. Pio lovingly became “Papa” in Abigail’s eyes. On July 7, 1996, his son Ariel married Cynthia Gaspar. On July 7, 2007, his daughter Angelina married Dale Dorsett. Pio welcomed both Cynthia and Dale with open arms and always provided unconditional love and support as if they were his own children.
When Pio wasn’t spending time with family or friends, he enjoyed gardening, bowling, and listening to music. Pio joined many bowling leagues, but he had the most fun in the bowling league that he joined with his children. He loved opportunities when he could bond with his family. He also maintained his ties with town mates from his hometown in the Philippines by becoming an active member of the Marcelineans of San Diego, helping foster brotherhood and fellowship. Since Oly was a devout Catholic, Pio also became active in church. In 1977, Oly and Pio became parishioners at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church. Throughout the years, Pio volunteered to be a Eucharistic Minister, Lector, Catechist, Small Bible Study Group Facilitator, and a Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) Team Member. Through his catholic faith, he created valuable friendships which endured till his last days. Many admired Pio’s free spirit, generosity, and sense of humor.
Pio is survived by his loving children Angelina and husband Dale, and Ariel and wife Cynthia; his granddaughter Abigail; and several beloved relatives and friends. Pio died peacefully in San Felipe, surrounded by beloved relatives. He will truly be missed but is now at peace with the Lord our God, and loving wife Oly. His love will continue to forever inspire those of us who were lucky enough to know him. Though he is no longer with us, he will always remain in our hearts. We love you Pio!!!
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
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