Celestino Gozun

Celestino was born on May 19, 1941 to Benjamin and Herminigilda Gozun in Mawaque, Mabalacat, Pampanga, Philippines. After graduating from Mabalacat Institute High School, he went on to study Agriculture at Araneta University in Manila. 

In 1961, he met the love of his life, Florentina (Tina) Lising, and they wed on May 19, 1962, going on to have two children, Lou and Madeline. 

After graduating from Araneta University in April 1962, Celestino landed his first job in the Department of Agriculture.  He worked there until he migrated to the United States in 1971.  

Celestino was determined to provide a better future for his children, so at 30 years old, with little money in his pocket, and no family in the US, he made that brave journey. Upon arriving in Los Angeles, CA, he stayed with his gracious hometown friend and classmate, the late Noly Carr; his wife, Libby; and their two daughters, Beth and Cathy.  

Within a short time span, Celestino was able to save enough money bussing tables to emigrate his wife and children from the Philippines in July 1972. They joined him in El Segundo, CA where he was able to rent a one-bedroom apartment.

His bussing days were soon over as he was able to land a job at Electronic Memories, and then to Ampex Data Systems Corp, building a 20+ year career in the electronics industry. His true goal, however, was to work in the field he earned his college degree in, so he made that happen by working at the California Department of Food and Agriculture in 1996, and then later in the Inspection division at the LAX United States Department of Agriculture where he retired. His last job was with the Clark County School District, where he worked part time as a special needs bus aide until he retired again.

Beyond Celestino’s professional achievements, he was also a man of great faith, character, and integrity. He possessed a remarkable ability to connect with others, always displaying kindness, empathy, and a genuine interest in their lives. His warm smile and gentle nature touched the hearts of everyone he encountered, leaving a lasting impact on their lives.

God and family were at the center of Celestino's world. As a  wonderful husband to his wife, Tina, they together  built a strong and loving partnership that served as a shining example to all. As a devoted Catholic, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and the eldest of seven brothers and sisters, Celestino was a constant source of love, guidance, and support. He instilled the values of hard work, perseverance, and the importance of family bonds. His legacy will live on through the lives of his children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Celestino was a man of many passions and interests. Whether it was through his love for literature, his passion for gardening, his joy in drawing, traveling with his wife, or listening to music, Celestino embraced life fully, welcoming every opportunity to enrich his mind and soul.

Celestino was predeceased by his parents, Benjamin and Herminigilda, as well as his brother, Eduardo. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Florentina; his brothers, Abelardo, Jose, and Virgilio; his sisters, Africa and Leticia; his son, Lou; his daughter, Madeline (Peter); and his grandchildren, Marco (Zamaryz), Alyssa (Jacob), Lanze, and Ashley.

As we bid farewell to Celestino, we take solace in the memories we shared, the lessons he taught us, and the love he bestowed upon us. His departure leaves an irreplaceable void in our lives, but his spirit will forever live on in our hearts.

Celestino Gozun will be deeply missed but never forgotten. May his soul rest in eternal peace.