Leon J. Guadiz, Jr. Obituary (1940

Leon J. Guadiz, Jr, also known as John, passed away peacefully in his Bremerton home surrounded by his wife and his children on July 22, 2024, at the age of 84. He was born in Baguio City, Philippines to Leon S. Guadiz, Sr and Concepcion J. Guadiz on February 24, 1940. He was raised in San Antonio, Zambales, Philippines with his family of 7 brothers and sisters. He joined the United States Navy in 1962 that brought him to various places in the world from active duty during the Vietnam War to meeting the love of his life, Maria Thelma Garcia, in Kingsville, Texas in April 1971. They exchanged their vows on March 17, 1972 in Falfurrias, Texas and have been happily married for 52 years. The Navy brought them to Bremerton, Washington where they settled with their first born and only son, John. His, "Baby Girls" Faith, Rachel, and Christie were to follow. Leon, a God fearing man, sought strength in his faith and traveled with his family to Seattle to the Iglesia Ni Cristo, Church of Christ for 14 years. His strong faith did not waiver during this time and steadily prayed for a church to be brought to Kitsap County. God heard his cries and a group worship service/congregation was established in 1986. Leon was not only a pioneer in this congregation, but also a pillar in the leadership, as the Head Deacon for 34 years and its growth. He considered the congregation his family and loved them dearly. To him, the congregation was not just a group of people who gathered together for worship, but a true family who shared a bond that went beyond the walls of the church. And for that, he was eternally grateful. Upon completion of his 20 years in the US Navy he retired in 1981. Leon went to Olympic College where he took classes in welding until he obtained a job with the US Postal Service as a Mail Carrier in 1982. He retired with 31 years of service in 2013. Leon had a strong sense of work ethic and put his all into everything he did. He enjoyed his duty to God, spending time with his family & friends, telling stories, shopping at Costco and Harbor Freight, and when retired, gardening, especially nurturing his grapes. He is preceded in death by his parents and grandson, Jesrayon Guadiz-Macadangdang. He is survived by his wife Thelma Guadiz, son John (Kristine), daughters: Faith-Love Macadangdang (Jessie), Rachel Candare (Ranzanee, Sr.), Christie Diaz (Rommel). Grandchildren: Juhn, Jessie Jr., Courtney, Mylene, Jessafai, Maliah, Jesiah, Ranzanee Jr., Gabrielle, Kainalu, & Kaimana. His brothers: Ernesto (Myrna), Marcelino Sr. (Elena), Rudy (Maria), George (Cindy) and sisters: Rita (Virgilio), Rebecca (Ricardo), Nora (Rolando). 75 nieces, nephews, grand-nieces/nephews. In addition to hundreds of extended family and friends. Throughout his life, Dad exemplified the values of love and faith. He taught us to love with all our hearts, to be compassionate towards others, and to always stand strong in our faith. His unwavering belief in God was a guiding light for our family, and his legacy of love and faith will continue to inspire us for generations to come. Dad will be deeply missed but never forgotten. He leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and kindness that will forever be cherished in our hearts. May he rest in peace, knowing that his love and faith have left an indelible mark on our lives. Leon J. Guadiz, Jr. Celebration of Love will be held at Lewis Funeral Chapel on Friday, August 2, 2024 from 12:00 pm - 3:30 pm. Interment at 4:00 pm at Forest Lawn Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Lewis Funeral Chapel.