Francis Aquinaldo's Obituary
CSM Francis Aquinaldo, (U.S. ARMY, Ret.), 93 years young and a 55+ year resident of Leesville, LA was reassigned on October 15, 2018 to report for his final Tour of Duty in Heaven. He had a peaceful passing in Hollister, CA. Francis, was born September 16, 1925 in Laoag, Ilocus Norte, Philippine Islands. At a very young age, his family relocated to Hilo, Hawaii where he spent his formative years with his parents, brothers and sisters. In April 1945 he married the love of his life, Mary. Together they led an amazing life and raised two wonderful boys, Glenn James and Wayne, traveled throughout the world while Francis, with great pride and honor, served his country. Francis served with distinction for our country in the Korean and Vietnam wars. Over the course of his illustrious military career he was highly decorated and received many commendations and medals. True to his humble upbringing and disposition, he never spoke of his many commendations or the many ways in which he served his country until his final months of life. In 1975, Francis retired after 32 years of distinguished service. He will be remembered for many years to come for his patriotism and his love for his wife and his Ohana.
Francis was preceded in death by his parents Teodoro Sr and Agatona (Miquel) Villanueva, his younger brothers and sisters, Victoria Villanueva Abasial, Leoncio “Toy” Villanueva, Kalvin “Muso” Villanueva, and his youngest son, Wayne Aquinaldo.
He leaves behind his loving and devoted wife of 73 years, Mary Blaquera Aquinaldo; son and daughter-in-law Glenn J. and Karen Aquinaldo of Salinas, California; and daughter-in-law, Peggy Aquinaldo of Savannah, Texas. He is also survived by his brothers, Teodoro “Ted” and his wife, Lee Villanueva of Lakewood, WA; Benjamin “Ben” and his wife, Michiko Villanueva of Victorville, CA; and his sisters, Pacita Villanueva Oasay of South San Francisco, CA; Norma “Hachi” and her husband Peter Hacsi, Kula Maui, HI. Francis is also survived by numerous loving and caring nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 1, 2018 at 1:00 P.M. in the Labby Memorial Funeral Home in Leesville, LA. At Francis’ request a celebration of his life and scattering of ashes in Hilo, Hawaii will be held at a date to be determined later. The family also wishes to personal and heartfelt “Mahalo” to Jerry and Felicidad Kankelborg of Clearview Care Home, along with their care staff, and Bridge Hospice, for the care, kindness and service provided to Francis in his final weeks of life. We are eternally grateful.
Aloha | [əˈlōˌhä]) – is a word commonly used to say hello, goodbye, and I love you. It is also used to convey love, affection, peace, sympathy, pity, kindness, mercy, and compassion. So, in the Spirit of Aloha, the family invites friends and family who knew, loved, and respected Francis to please, pause a moment today to share a photo, story or anecdote in his honor on this website.
What’s your fondest memory of Francis?
What’s a lesson you learned from Francis?
Share a story where Francis' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Francis you’ll never forget.
How did Francis make you smile?