Vicente Nicart Bianes Sr.

Vicente N. Bianes, Sr. was born on April 6, 1927 in San Policarpo, Eastern Samar Philippines to Cirilo and Maria Nicart Bianes. He was the 5th child born and had 4 brothers and 4 sisters for a total of nine.

He had a strong desire to continue learning and wanted to attend high school. Unfortunately, the nearest high school was in the neighboring town of Taft, located many miles from his home. Fortunately, a teacher, Mr. Beato, agreed to let him stay at his home. As payment for rent, he agreed to clean and get water for the household. While attending high school, he entered a math competition and took 1st place. He graduated with honors and was 2nd in his class upon graduation.

After high school, he moved to Manila and worked at the Angtibay Shoe Factor. With the money he earned and saved, he purchased a coffee stand and sold coffee and sandwiches. As his business grew, he was able to rent a home in the city, not just for him, but also for his 10 employees.

With his business thriving, he now had the means to continue his education. He attended college at Far Eastern University in the city of Manila. There, his life changed forever. It was there where a classmate of his informed him that the US Navy was taking applications to join. He sent in an application and a year later he was one of 8, out of 58 applicants, to be accepted into the US Navy.

With his US Navy uniform on, he was one of the most desirable bachelors in his town. However, he only had eyes for one beautiful lady, Benigna Paligutan. He married her on August 2, 1961 and had three children, Vicente Jr., Anthony, and Beverly. He also had seven grandchildren: Juliana, Alana, Alyssa, Sean, David, Madison, and Samantha.

He served 20 years in the US Navy, from 1955 to 1975. He retired honorably as a Chief Petty Officer. After retiring from the Navy, he became a successful business man and opened his own real estate company, Golden Realty, which he handed down to his children.

Vicente N. Bianes, Sr., at the age of 97, lived a wonderful life, full of love and happiness. He will be missed, but the lifelong memories he gave us, will live with us forever. Love you dad.