Obituary: Mario Malit Suratos

This week we are making plans for Pa's prayer service, funeral mass and interment. I wrote his obituary, you can find the link to the online page - as well as lots of pictures of his lovely, happy, smiling face - here and below.

And here is a selfie we took on Mother's Day, 2014. I got his smile - lucky me!! This mother's day, the day before he had his stroke, he treated us all for a big dinner at a Chinese food restaurant. He was so happy to pay, and then we went over to their new condo that they had just moved into. He was gone less than 48 hours later. I miss him so much.

It has been a comfort to look at old pictures, read condolences, and go through all the notes and messages that family and friends have written online. I am writing these posts after the fact, but they are helping in some small way as well.

Mario Malit Suratos
October 9, 1946 - May 10, 2016
Obituary

Passed away unexpectedly on May 10, surrounded by his loving family. Predeceased by his parents Pedro and Primitiva, and brothers Doming and Berting. Mario will be lovingly remembered by his wife Virginia, children Tina (Jeff), Annabelle (Darcy), Jimmy (Maiko), Leslie (Nathaniel), and Jennifer (Christopher), and grandchildren Brianna, Noah, and Leyna. He also leaves behind his sister Pacita, Corazon Erestingcol - whom he always regarded as a second sister - and her family in California, and all his extended relatives here in Vancouver, including the families of Paring Soriano, Etong Suratos, Danny Suratos, Josephine, Aileen and Alberto. Mario will also be remembered by his extended family in the Philippines, and many cousins, nephews, nieces, compadres, co-workers, and friends.

Mario received his training at the U.S. Naval Base in Subic Bay, Philippines, and worked for 40 years as a Journeyman Red Seal Machinist. He had a zest for life and a passion for learning, which lead to a side career as a financial advisor. He spent his days going to the gym, playing golf with his buddies, and having coffee with the Oakridge crew. He and his wife Virgie enjoyed the freedom that retirement provided to go for soup at the casino whenever they wanted. We will always remember Mario as our Atog, an open and generous man, who enjoyed a good laugh and a nice drink. He will be in our hearts forever.

Prayers will be said Friday, May 20, 7:00 pm at St. Andrew's Parish, 480 East 47th Avenue, Vancouver, where Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, May 21, 12:00 pm. Fr. Vincent Nguyen, celebrant. Interment to follow at 1:30 pm at Ocean View Funeral Home, South Mausoleum, 4000 Imperial Street, Burnaby. Online condolences to the family may be made in the space below.