Odilon Agaton

Odilon R. Agaton, 86, of Cerritos, California, passed away peacefully on August 8, 2026. He was born in Bato, Palauig, Zambales, Philippines to Librada Rosal Agaton and Tomas Abad Agaton.

Growing up harvesting the rice fields and fish ponds in the Philippines, Odi (as he was known to many) learned at a young age the value of perseverance, discipline, labor and toil. He also understood the importance of education and believed that learning could open doors and create opportunities. He earned an accounting degree from the University of the East and went on to pass the Certified Public Accounting examination in the Philippines. His career led him to work for various companies in the manufacturing and food industries, bringing with him a sharp mind, strong work ethic, and an unwavering commitment to doing things “the right way.”

Shortly after immigrating to Southern California in the United States in his late 20s, Odi married his “Darling” Norma Rilloraza, with whom he shared the joy of raising their two children for five years before their life together was cut short by her passing. In time, he opened his heart to love again and married Gloria Mendoza, who he spent 47 years. They took pleasure in the ordinary of everyday family life– sharing each other’s day during meals, mundane chores and errands, and on many occasions, family road trips. They were members of the Mother of Mercy Rosary Group of Cerritos, California and the Filipino Cursillos in Christianity, Archdiocese of Los Angeles, finding deep meaning in community, prayer, and spiritual fellowship.

Throughout his life, Odi’s continual passion for learning in order to “feed the brain” and his curiosity expanded into gardening, cooking and current events. He often experimented in the kitchen, always eager to share his latest culinary creations- whether they turned out beautiful and delicious or became lessons for next time. He also enjoyed a good “one on one”- interested about what makes a person tick and exchanging opinions about world and local affairs, including economies and politics.

Odilon is survived by his wife Gloria, his daughter, son-in-law, daughter-in-law and grandchildren, five siblings and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife Norma, his daughter Lily, and his son Glenn, in addition to his parents and four siblings.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Monday, September 21, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with a vigil at 6:00 p.m. at Forest Lawn, Cypress, California. Funeral Mass will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 22, 2026 at Holy Family Catholic Church, Artesia, California followed by burial at Forest Lawn, Cypress, California.