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91, of Honolulu, Hawaii, passed away peacefully on March 24th, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family and caregiver. While he will be deeply missed, his spirit lives on in the joyful memories we hold dear. Born on July 12th, 1933, in San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte, Philippines, to Vidal and Eustaquia Bonilla, the eldest of six children. He was called "Sanidad" for being the Chief Sanitary Inspector of the province of Ilocos Norte, a position he held before migrating to Hawaii in 1985. With sheer determination, despite the challenges of being new to the country and his advancing age (he was in his 50’s), he was able to land a good civil service job at the Hawaii State Department of Budget and Finance, where he retired in 2003. Carmelo was diligent and hardworking, and his personal interests included listening to music (Ilocano and some old Spanish songs were his favorites), reading newspapers and magazines, solving crossword puzzles, watching James Bond movies and TV/news. He was also a good cook – his specialties were pancit (Filipino noodle dish), chicken and pork dishes. He was the beloved husband of the late Crisanta "Crising" Bonilla (she passed away in 2017), and together they built a beautiful family. Carmelo is cherished by his children: Revelina (Ernesto) Bagay, Carmelo (Irina) Bonilla Jr., Marizza (Pablito) Pasalo, Alexander (Victoria) Bonilla, Emmanuel Bonilla, and Melinda (Thomas) Bonilla-Puetz. His legacy continues through his nine grandchildren and five great- grandchildren, whom he adored and who brought immense joy to his life. Carmelo’s dedication to his family was the cornerstone of his life. His warm presence and generous spirit made every moment spent with him a treasured memory. As we reflect on his life, we celebrate the love he shared and the indelible mark he left in our hearts. Relatives and friends are invited to his funeral service on Friday, May 9, 2025, from 9am-1pm at the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park – Trousdale Chapel, Kaneohe. Burial to follow at 1pm. |
