Mr. Rafael Cuevas Bumbasi Sr.

(October 24, 1939 – January 31, 2023)

1 Timothy 5:8 (NKJV) - But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.

Peacefully, and with Soledad, his loving wife of 61 years at his side, Rafael Cuevas Bumbasi, Sr., departed this earthly life and entered into eternal rest and glory to be with God the Father, Jesus our Lord and Savior, and the Holy Spirit, on January 31, 2023.

Preceded in death by his father Bernardo, his mother Marcela, his stepmother Anacleta, his brothers Virgilio and Zosimo, and his oldest son, Rafael Jr.

Irreplaceable and dear husband of Soledad.

Loving father of Randolph (Jessica) and Raoul.

Proud grandfather of Brandon, Marc, Raina, Brittany, R.J., Rylan, and Ranell, and great-grandfather of Brooklyn.

Loyal brother of Fernando, Sr. (Josphine), Eufrocina (Reynaldo), Flaviana, Pilar, Emiterio (Milagros), Sonia, and Maximo (Maria Luz).

Further survived by cousins, nieces, nephews, and other dear relatives and friends. He will also be missed by his brothers at the Masonic Temple and all those he inspired and mentored during his distinguished career in the United States Navy.

Rafael Sr., was born the oldest of four children born to Bernardo and Marcela Bumbasi, in Imus, Cavite, Philippines, on October 24, 1939. He later welcomed, one sister born to Bernardo and Consolacion, and three sisters and two brothers born to Bernardo and Anacleta Bumbasi.

As the “panganay” of ten brothers and sisters born into challenging circumstances in an impoverished town in the Philippines, Rafael Sr. quickly developed the remarkable mental fortitude and exceptional leadership skills that would define him throughout his life.

As a child, Rafael Sr. formed an inseparable bond with 2 very dear friends, Gabriel Palma, Sr., and Leo Pastor, who would join him as they embarked on new lives in the United States in the late 1950s.

Rafael Sr., met the love of his life, Soledad, while stationed in San Francisco, CA, on active duty in the U.S. Navy. It was love at first sight, and she supported his dreams and career every step of the way. Together, they had three sons: Rafael Jr., Randolph and Raoul.

The simplest pleasures in life brought great joy to him. Doting on His grandchildren and great granddaughter; being the patriarch of the “Bumbasi Clan”; enjoying Filipino “Fiestas”; raising fighting roosters; singing Karaoke far too often; creating culinary masterpieces; and, partaking in Masonic traditions.

Rafael Sr. had a passionate love affair with himself that he proudly passed on to two of his sons and a few select nieces/nephews and grandchildren – you know who you are!

Visitation for Rafael will be held Monday, February 27, 2023 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and Tuesday, February 28, 2023 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Glen Abbey's Magnolia Room, 3838 Bonita Road, Bonita, CA 91902.

A Masonic service will be held during Tuesday's, February 28, 2023, visitation starting at 6pm.

A funeral service will occur Wednesday, March 1, 2023 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, 3838 Bonita Road, Bonita, CA 91902.

A committal service will occur Wednesday, March 1, 2023 from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM at Glen Abbey Memorial Park - Block 92B, 3838 Bonita Road, Bonita, CA 91902.

A reception will follow after the committal service from 12:30pm/1pm-3pm, at Great Plaza Buffet, 1840 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.glenabbeysandiego.net for the Bumbasi family.