Antonio Salas Laje

Antonio Salas Laje, also known as Tony, was born in Manila, Philippines on February 6, 1935. He lived through historic global events such as World War II, the Great Depression, numerous wars, catastrophic natural and man made disasters, and most recently the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the tumultuous period of time that he lived in, by the grace of God, Antonio lived a full peaceful life of 86 years surrounded by family.

Antonio’s parents are Buenaventura and Gaudencia Laje. He was the firstborn of 11 children. As a young boy, he moved to the province of Zambales during World War II to flee the Japanese military. After high school, he worked in Subic Bay to help support his parents and siblings. There he met and fell in love with Clarita Laje. Together they had two children: Cheryl Ann and Clayton Roy Laje.

After decades of hard work in the Philippines, Antonio immigrated with his family to the United States in 1988. Life was difficult in a foreign country, but with God’s help Clarita and Antonio were able to raise their children in the faith in the Church of Christ. At church, people knew him as Ka Tony or Brother Tony.

Antonio Laje was a simple, quiet, and patient man of few words. When he did speak, it was either to make you smile or laugh or to get his point across. He was definitely a silly, lighthearted man. He loved to joke with people and was never one to be serious. Antonio liked watching TV especially old western movies starring John Wayne. He also liked animals and cared for birds. One of his best qualities was that he was an extremely patient person. When you were angry with him, in return he was slow to anger with you. When there was someplace he needed to take his family, he would do so happily. Another special trait he had was that he was a great cook. He cooked some of the best Filipino dishes for his family, day in and day out without complaint. Through cooking food he was able to show his love.

During his 70s and 80s, he was able to meet and watch his granddaughters grow up. Avelyn and Georgiana have fond memories of his silly songs and jokes. He was able to watch his youngest granddaughter, Ellie, from afar, making sure she was safe.

We are sorrowful that Antonio has passed. He leaves us with many happy memories to remember him by. Even in his last days, he was cheerful and playful. Although he has passed in this present life, he has finished his race. Until then, Brother Tony, Kuya Tony, Dad, Grandpa, Tony…we will always love you and smile at the thought of you. You are the most patient husband and the best dad. Thank you for all your love, unconditional patience, and lifetime of smiles and laughter.