Emilio Navarro Gamalinda

On Monday, October 29, 2018, Emilio Navarro Gamalinda, loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away at the age of 88 years old. Emilio was born on September 12, 1930, in Manila, Philippines.


Emilio was preceded in death by his siblings, Eddie, Alex, Lydia, Ernesto, Anges; his wife, Minda, of 53 years and also his eldest son, Rossini, who passed away in February of this year. He is survived by his siblings: Aida, Sonny, and Arcel and his children, Becky (wife of Rossini); Gene and wife, Arlene; Emil and wife, Jocelyn; Mary Lynn and husband, Ramon; Xenia; Dennis and wife, Aileen; Glenn and wife, Violeta. He was blessed with 16 beautiful grandchildren: Jennifer, Jaron, Allyssa, Christine, Ryan, Katrina, Sydni, Krista, Nikka, Lynzi, Larissa, Jonathan, Mariah, Mark, Audri, and Dean. In addition, 7 great-grandchildren: Riley, Greyson, Aria, Mia, Noah, Monroe, and Lincoln.

He resided in Upland, California at the time of his passing. Emilio retired from the American Red Cross as an Associate Director of Disaster Relief and Emergency Services. He was passionate in helping people during times of natural disasters and in assisting them in rebuilding their community. When he retired, he devoted his time in serving as a Usher and Choir Lead of the All Male Choir at St. Peter and St. Paul Catholic Church in Alta Loma.

"Daddy" Gamalinda, as he was affectionately called was a devout Catholic, musician, and a very good friend to many. Daddy was surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and extended family and friends at the time of his passing. He received the Sacrament of Reconciliation and Anointing of the sick during his confinement in the hospital. Daddy Gamalinda strived to live a life of grace in his ordinary life.