Irenio Castilan Bernabe

Irenio Castilan Bernabe, 87, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2024. He was born on June 28, 1937, in Pangasinan, Philippines, to Domingo and Sixta Bernabe, who preceded him in death.

In 1963, Irenio immigrated to the United States, where he proudly served in the United States Navy for seven years. After his military service, he worked at FMC/United Defense in San Jose, California, for 35 years. During this time, he pursued higher education at De Anza College, utilizing his GI Bill benefits from the Navy.

Irenio is survived by his beloved wife, Andrea, a devoted Third Order Dominican and active member of the Legion of Mary Praesidium, whose faith and support guided him back to the Catholic Church. He is also survived by his son Billy, grandson Phil, daughter Leslie, and granddaughters Skyler and Jaden.

A devoted family man, Irenio was deeply involved in supporting his daughter Leslie’s pursuits, including her ice skating, swimming, piano, and voice lessons from her early childhood. He also cherished time spent with his youngest sibling Angelina and her children, Glenn and Aileen, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

Irenio found joy in nature, enjoying fishing, camping, and frequent visits to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey’s scenic coastline. His deep Catholic faith inspired pilgrimages to sacred sites, including Rome, Lourdes, and the Holy Land.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Irenio’s life at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 9961 Elk Grove Florin Rd, Elk Grove, CA, on December 23, 2024. Visitation and viewing will begin at 1:00 PM, followed by a Funeral Mass at 2:00 PM. Interment will take place at 3:00 PM at St. Mary Cemetery, 6509 Fruitridge Rd, Sacramento, CA 95820.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Joseph’s Parish, 9961 Elk Grove Florin Rd, Elk Grove, CA 95624.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.