Juanito G. Lapuz

Juanito Lapuz, 87, born on March 27, 1937, in Pampanga, Philippines, passed away March 07, 2025.  Born to Irineo and Eugenia Lapuz, he came from humble beginnings but he distinguished himself with his intellect at an early age. He attended Far Eastern University in Manila, graduating salutatorian with Bachelor degree in Laws.  He practiced maritime law and civil litigation after passing the Philippine Bar Exam. 

Johnny, as he was often called married the love of his life, Luciana, on June 26, 1971 and they were married for 53 years, their lives spanning two worlds as they navigated the life of immigrants to California in the 1980s.  Together, they raised four children, John, Jennipher, Jayson, and Jonathan, instilling in them the value of education, hard work, love for your family, and appreciating all the blessings that God had given them. Even as he adjusted to life in the US, he never forgot his siblings in the Philippines and continued to look out for them, even from a distance. 

While he missed his beloved sabungan, he was still able to enjoy his love of reading, travelling, and living life to the fullest. In his later years, he enjoyed Vegas and casinos, and making sure he shared his winnings if fortune smiled his way. He loved to joke around and making those around him laugh.  At work, he was a consummate professional who enjoyed helping others navigate the US immigration system, winning appeals at the Board of Immigration appeals levels and securing permanent residency for many clients. Most of all, he was devoted to his family who meant the world to him and being with his wife and children was his greatest joy. 

Dad is in God's embrace now but we will hold Dad in our hearts forever.