Obituaries

Matias Pangelinan Balajadia was called home to be with the Lord on February 13, 2018, at the age of 82. He is survived by his loving wife, Cecilia, 7 children, 23 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. He is further survived by 4 brothers, 3 sisters and hundreds of nieces and nephews. Matias was born to Juan and Emiliana Balajadia on February 17, 1935 in Guam. As a man of the military, he lived in many places throughout the United States, but eventually settled and lived most of his life in Fremont, California. Matias retired in 1977 as a Chief Petty Officer in the U.S. Navy, after serving over 20 years. He was involved in the Knights of Columbus and a member of the Holy Spirit Church in Fremont. Matias had a number of interests which included working on automobiles, playing poker with his long-time friends, and attending family functions, which were large and numerous. He took delight in Western films, particularly any John Wayne feature. He also enjoyed playing a variety of card games on his computer. Matias loved to dance, the Jitterbug was his favorite.

Matias was a father, a grandfather, a great-grandfather, an uncle, a brother, and a dear friend to so many. He inspired many to be faithful, strong, and enjoy life as it comes. Matias will be missed by his family and friends.