Nemesio Senson DeGuzman

Butch was born on December 19, 1937, to Celina Gragera Senson and Juan Pablo DeGuzman in Angono, Rizal, Philippines. After his mother and 3 siblings passed away during World War II, Butch moved to Rosario, La Union, Philippines, with his father and sister Lourdes. He graduated from high school at the Union Institute of Rosario. Seeing great opportunities in the United States, he joined the U.S. Navy in 1958. During his military service, Butch was able to travel extensively, and he became a steward and culinary specialist while serving on ships and nuclear submarines. A highlight of his career was when he was selected to serve as the Admiral’s Chef before he retired from the Navy. While stationed in Charleston, South Carolina, he retired from the Navy on May 11, 1977. He enrolled at Trident Technical Institute and completed his degree there before starting civil service work as a pipefitter at the Charleston Naval Shipyard. When the federal government closed the shipyard in 1996, Butch relocated to Stafford, Virginia, to continue civil service work until he retired in 2002. After spending time in Virginia and Maryland, Butch moved to San Diego, California, to be closer to his younger siblings.

Butch will be remembered as someone who worked hard and played hard, enjoying life to the fullest. He was a remarkable cook whose dishes were loved by all. He enjoyed fishing, shrimping, and crabbing with family and friends. A skilled mechanic, Butch helped anyone with car repairs and home projects. During his time in Charleston, he was active in his local bowling league, and later he was known for his love of karaoke singing.

Butch is survived by his partner, Vanessa Arnold of Chula Vista; his son Felipe DeGuzman in Tennessee; his daughter, Anisia Holigores, and two grandchildren in Washington state; and two adopted sons, Steve DeGuzman in Colorado and Darren DeGuzman. Butch was the eldest living brother, and leaves behind 11 siblings in San Diego and in the Philippines and many nieces and nephews. Butch was preceded in death by his father, Juan Pablo DeGuzman, of San Diego.