Eulogies & Messages
(in no particular order)
Dear Brods,
The Beta Sigma Fraternity NW decided to induct Ronnie
Dimaano, UPLB as the new GP of the Beta Sigma Fraternity NW chapter, at
his bedside this afternoon at 5 PM Seattle time, at the Swedish Medical
Center, Seattle, WA.
Greg Vergara, UPD 73-C,
4-18-15
===========================
RONNIE'S LAST MOMENTS BY JOEL SIM,
M.D.
Dear All,
Today, at 930PM, our dear Brod Ronnie and recently inducted Grand Princep
of the Beta Sigma, Northwest Chapter was called to be with our LORD, His
maker.
He was discharged from the Swedish Medical Center, Seattle yesterday . He
was doing comparatively well, ate well at home, was ambulatory and walked
about inside his home. Went to sleep last night without any significant
complaints. His sleep was uneventful. Early this morning Sis Marlene noted
he was seating up and complained of difficulty of breathing. 911 was
called. He was brought to the Swedish Hospital in Edmonds, admitted. Sis
Marlene called our home at approximately 1130AM. It was decided that she
needed support. G.P. Nic was called. and Brod Willie came and drove us
with Thelma to Edmonds. Arrived at approximately 130 PM.
Upon entering his room, observing his appearance and watching the several
electronic monitors, it was obvious to me that Brod Ronnie was nearing the
end. He was gasping for breath, responding to loud noise or loud voice
from Sis Marlene.. The hospital chaplain was called, came and prayed for Brod Ronnie. I asked for a Roman Catholic priest to render the last/extreme unction and anointing of oil as is the usual practice in such
situation. She assured me she would get one for Brod Ronnie, but it would be
about 700 PM. We waited. At 800 PM, when no priest came Sis Josie led the
family to pray. I followed with a short closing prayer. Shortly
thereafter, the chaplain called to inform me that she could not get a
priest to come, that she would try another priest, but there was no
guarantee that he would be able to come either. I thanked her and informed
her we did not need a priest anymore. All the necessary prayers had been
said, besides, we knew that our brother Ronnie was a Christian and would
soon see and talk to our Lord IN PERSON HIMSELF..
Brod Angie and Sis Josie came, Brods Jun Presto, Roger Miguel, Joey and
Tess Carandang came and we all said our goodbyes individually. I told Brod
Ronnie to go in peace and cease his struggling, as all would be taken
cared and he was going to a much better place. That the Lord awaited his
arrival.
Three of his office mates came, spent some time with him and the family. I
expressed my concerns about brod Ronnie's medical care and health
insurance plus the 401K arrangements for Sis Marlene. They assured me,
they would bring up these issues with the chief of their H.R. I informed
them that I may visit them with Sis Marlene, if need be.
His children came around his bed and had their precious time around him.
They all expressed their love for him.
Despite my long years of being an MD and witnessing deaths and near death
situations, I found this experience with Brod Ronnie heart wrenching and
painful to see. I became exhausted. I could feel the pain and the
agonizing heartaches that I knew Sis Marlene and their children were
undergoing. Seeing him gasping for breath and struggling to survive
rendered me helpless and immobile. Several times I whispered in his ears,
to go gently and peacefully and assured him all would be well and his
Betan Brods would stand by him to his last breath and help look after the
family he has left behind.
I discussed with the charge nurse the arrangements with CADY Crematorium
and Funeral House in Kent, WA. Gave them the telephone number to call. She
told me the contact would be made by the hospital morgue staff. Urged me
not to worry, that the hospital would take care of arranging the transfer
of the body of Brod Ronnie to the CADY Funeral House.
He took his last breath at approximately 930PM. His heart kept on going
for a couple of minutes more, finally the tracing went flat.
I notified the children, their Dad was gone.
Above, Brods, is my eye witness account of the last moments of our
beloved Beta Sigma Brod, Brother Mario (Ronnie) Dimaano.
THE LORD give him peace. We are assured he is most.welcome in his
celestial abode.
Betanly,
BROD JOEL
===========================
According to Marlene, Brod Ronnie's
wife, our dearest brother has just joined his Creator (9:40 p.m.)
Brod Ronnie has faithfully served as Director of the International Board
for the past 7 months and was inducted Grand Princep of the Beta Sigma
Northwest Chapter last Saturday.
According to Brod Cosme Santiago, it was always Brod Ronnie's dream to
become a GP. He was also Herald of his Chapter and served as Area
Coordinator of UP Northern California Chapter way back in early 2000.
Let's all pray for Brod Ronnie, who has passed on to his next life.
With deep sadness.
Willie "Tatang" Vergara, 4-20-15
===========================
"There must be a Beta Sigma
Federation meeting or a GP convention going on upstairs.“ This was a
thought racing through my mind as I watched Brod Ronnie take his last
breaths on his death bed at Swedish Hospital in Edmonds. I pictured him
meeting all the other Beta Sigmans waiting for him to take his seat at the
Other Worldly Chug-a-lug.
I first met Brod Ronnie seven years ago when, by some twist of fate, I was
rediscovered and reborn as a Beta Sigman (a story for another time). I
quickly volunteered to host one meeting during which we all gave a short
autobiographical account as an introduction. I remember him as a young,
shy brother who seemed to be in awe of all that was going on, and of the
older brothers in particular. It was a very good, well-attended meeting,
soon followed by the usual attrition. There remained a core group of
brothers and Ronnie was one of them. He was a regular at the meetings and
fraternity events, missing them usually only when work responsibilities
took precedence. The Ronnie that I met was one generation removed from his
resident days as a “rumbling chug-a-lugging Tabet” (read Dutch Aragones’
memoirs).
The Brod Ronnie that I remember is a quiet, sensitive, respectful, young
family man living and upholding the values, and supporting the Beta Sigma
mission. In the years after we met, he tirelessly worked behind the scenes
to organize and coordinate efforts for our projects and social gatherings.
He coordinated and organized activities including the golf tournament at
our last fraternity ball in Seattle. He organized fundraisers (I think he
was partial to bowling tournaments). He was also responsible for
coordinating the now-annual Blood Drive to honor Brod Nards Taggueg, whom
I see now welcoming Ronnie to his seat at the at chug-a-lug table. He
would love that: He was a party animal, although the latest version of
Ronnie was no longer an out-of-control young man. Slowed by and wary of
gout attacks, he had to control his libations and intake of all that good
Filipino pulutan. At parties and social gatherings, Ronnie instead would
be seen singing karaoke or trying to organize a mahjong quorum.
Brod Ronnie soon was elected to be our MOTR, where he kept records of our
meetings, projects, and social activities. He utilized his computer and
artistic talents to design and create the Beta Sigma Fraternity Northwest
chapter website and constantly urged everybody to visit and contribute. It
was soon after this that he decided to be a leader instead of a follower.
Following my term as a UPBSFI director, he respectfully asked me if he
could be next one to serve the body. I gave my support and blessing along
with that of Brods Sluggo, Cosme, Greg, and Don.
Ronnie soon would be recognized and elected by the Northwest Chapter to be
the incoming Grand Princeps, and he had grand plans. The fraternity
induction ball was not just to be a fraternity ball, he envisioned it to
be a showcase by hosting the Federation Convention.
Being one of the skeptics and seeing only a lot of work ahead, I remember
asking him, "Why, what's in it for us?" His reply was, "We always had a
good chapter, we consider ourselves a model chapter, we have to showcase
our chapter and our region: The beautiful Pacific Northwest!”
By this time, the big C came calling and our GP-elect was already in
failing health. Knowing that this is what he wanted, we did put in in our
bid and propose to host the federation convention, though we lost to
Toronto. I admit that this was a relief for me, but I know it was a big
disappointment for Ronnie. From his sick bed, he continued to coordinate
efforts to make this fraternity ball a showcase for the Northwest Chapter
and for Beta Sigmans of all stripes and shapes. And we all supported him.
Nick, the incumbent GP, was gracious enough to take the back seat and
respect Ronnie's wishes--so gracious that Nick took unprecedented action
and allowed Brod Ronnie to take the Grand Princeps oath of office from his
hospital bed shortly before his death.
I won’t call Brod Ronnie a typical Betan because there is no such animal:
Notice the Betan diaspora from UP to the other universities, the rest of
the islands, Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe, the rest of the world, and
the world beyond. But Ronnie was a true Betan, representing parts of the
diaspora: Betan elite, UPLB Betan, Canadian Betan, California Betan,
Northwest Betan, and now an Other Worldly Betan, .
To be a Grand Princeps--that was Ronnie's dream, and he wasn’t shy about
admitting it. From his sick bed he achieved it and, shortly after, that
Other Worldly Fraternity Convention invite came and, judging from Sis
Marlene’s account of his last night’s actions, he decided to accept and
go.
Grand Plans? Brod Ronnie had them. Grander Plans and God’s Plans? Well, He
now has an additional servant and steward. Godspeed Brod Ronnie!
To all who are planning to come to the July Fraternity Ball, we will have
a somber memorial to honor our departed GP and since this is an induction
ball, we might have a video of the induction at Ronnie's hospital bed. No
matter what, we promise you an other worldly, Pacific Northwest good time.
That is what Ronnie would have wanted.
Angie Garbes MD, UPD'62
===========================
Farewell GP Ronnie. We will continue
to celebrate your life and your term
as the incoming Grand Princep of Beta Sigma Northwest - a dream fulfilled.
Our fervent prayers go with you.
Norman Bituin UPD'65
===========================
The U.P. Beta Sigma Fraternity
International (UPBSFI) offers our heartfelt condolences in the passing of
Brod Ronnie Dimaano, UPLB '80B. Brod Ronnie is currently a Director of the
UPBSFI Board which he has been faithfully serving.
Our beloved Brod Ronnie has gone to another place where he will meet the
loved ones who have gone before him and where someday, we will be with him
forever. May he rest in paradise and an eternal light shine upon him. We
are saying goodbye with the sad certainty that our Brod Ronnie is no
longer with us physically, but with the glad conviction that the Lord is
with him and he is with the Lord. Our prayers and thoughts are with Sis
Marlene and family.
"Brod Ronnie, you will always occupy a special place in our hearts."
Edsel Arceo, Pres. UPBSFI, Inc.
===========================
Goodbye Brader Ronnie. I planned to
make the best speech ever for you in July, but now you are gone forever.
My deepest condolences to Sister Marlene and the family. Brader Ronnie,
may your soul rest in peace. Till we meet again.
Nongfred
==========================
It is with deep sadness to hear
about brod Ronnie's passing. He has been an active member and officer of
the
Beta Sigma Fraternity, Canada Inc.
In behalf of the brothers and our families, we are expressing our deepest
sympathy and condolences to the
Dimaano clan. May Ronnie rest in
peace.
Bogs Cabanatan UPD '65
GP Beta Sigma Fraternity, Canada Inc., Toronto
=================================
In behalf of the Beta Sigma Midwest
Chapter, our deepest condolences to sis Marlene and family...for the
passing of brader Ronnie...he will be missed greatly by his Betan Family.
We will pray for the eternal repose of his soul.
Goodbye brod....
Josue "Pamboy" Castillo UPD67b
GP Midwest
=================================
In behalf of the UP North Brods and
Family members, we would like to extend our condolences to Brod Ronnie's
family and the Beta Sigma Northwest Chapter. We join our brothers in the
Northwest chapter and the rest of the Beta Sigma Fraternity in mourning
the lost of a true Betan.
Farewell, Brod Ronnie. Rest in peace.
Ding Cavestany UPD'65 Black Saints
GP UP Beta Sigma Northern
California
=================================
The UP South Chapter wishes to
express our deepest condolences to the family of Brod GP Ronnie.
Ed Rivera, UPD 68A
GP UP Beta Sigma Southern
California
=================================
With my family's deepest condolences
to the family of Brod Ronnie and our prayers for the eternal repose of his
soul.
May he rest in peace.
Bing Garcia
==========================
Brod Ronnie wanted his memorial
service to be jovial. I am trying my best to comply with his wishes but it
is not easy. Bidding a final goodbye highlights our vulnerability and
helplessness as human beings and a stark realization that we are not in
control. We believe in pre-destiny but we don’t know how it all ends. God,
in His infinite wisdom, did not make it possible for us to know when, what
or how is life going to end. Might as well be because not knowing it makes
us oblivious and so we go thru life like all is just good and dandy. In
this case ignorance is bliss. Which brings to mind; Omar Khayyam’s famous
RUBAIYAT that says and I quote “the moving finger writes and having writ
moves on: Nor all your Piety nor wit shall lure it back to cancel half a
line Nor all your tears wash out a word of it” unquote.
But one thing is sure. Brod Ronnie jumped the line. He is supposed to fall
in line way behind me and a lot of his brothers. He was 30 years my
junior, same age as my oldest son and the order of departure from this
earth should be first in first out.
So, I wonder why he was in such a hurry to go to heaven. I would
understand if he was of a faith that believed in a heaven full of virgins,
but he was not like that, I think. He was a dedicated Betan par
excellence. That means he was a good boy.
Our loss is heaven’s gain. I’m sure he will continue his dedication to the
Fraternity up there. There should be a Beta Sigma Fraternity in heaven. So, brod Ronnie, let us know how it is over there. I know you will be joining
us whenever we meet. Kaya lang mag email ka muna dahil we have brods who
are afraid of ghosts.
Good bye for now, we will all see each other again in God’s own good time.
Paalam, sayonara, arrivederci, vaya con Diyos. May you rest in peace.
Ave Reyrao, MD
==========================
My condolence to the Dimaano's family.
Sincerely,
Nick Gálvez 69B
==========================
My deepest sympathy and condolence.
May the eternal repose of the soul of our brod Ronnie rest in peace in
the kingdom of heaven. Goodbye brod
Ronnie.
Ric Velasco '67b
==========================
Hail to GP Ronnie. My your soul rest
in peace. Sincere condolences to the Dimaano family.
Orly NM'64
==========================
Prayers and condolences for brod GP
Ronnie Dimaano and his family.
Fraternally,
Brod Cesar Antonio
==========================
Farewell brod Ronnie...my sincerest
condolence to the family!...
Edwin Garrido, UPC 78
==========================
Ronnie Dimaano
1963-2015
Young, energetic, and accomplished men die young. For Ronnie, he
accomplished his impeccable life’s mission with zest and dignity in the
brief period of time that he lived among us. He enrolled at U.P. Los Banos
- the Beta Sigma Fraternity University of Choice - transferred and
graduated from Letran University with a degree in economics, married his
charming high school sweetheart Marlene, and raised a family of three
girls and two boys.
My first impression of Ronnie was: He was a quiet, unassuming, atypical of
a U.P. student, graduate who was well-known of their swagger, dominance,
and, superior personalities. He exudes humility, dignity, down-to-earth,
and low-key personality but has the innate charisma that attracts
admiration from those who knows him.
Our family go to the same church and at the end or prior to the start of
the mass he never failed to notice me, touch my shoulder, and has always
something to say, inviting me to the next meeting of his and ours beloved
fraternity, the Beta Sigma Fraternity NW.
Ronnie is no longer in our midst, but the flame of love burns eternally in
our hearts and will always remember him every time we see his family or at
our fraternity get together.
He didn’t die for his blood is circulating in the bodies of his children,
the bearer of his Circle of Life, and the priceless legacy of a
short-lived but worthy existence in our world.
Benedicto B Manzano, UPD 1957
===========================
My only comfort is that I was able to talk with you for a day, then you
are gone, my dear Brod Ronnie. You always emailed me while at PI: Uwi ka
na sa US Brod para magkita pa tayo" of which I would reply HANG ON BROD.
DO NOT QUIT. Yes, your dream to become GP has achieved, but after a day of
Induction on at your hospital bed, you left us, your dear Northwest Brods
and everyone. I could hardly bear to see you suffer my GP. I was
there...in pain myself. Nauna ka lang kapatid. Sabi mo gusto mo pang
mabuhay and would often ask me ANONG GINAGAWA MO BROD buhay ka pa ! God
sas better place for you. No more pain, Brod. Lucky you. Hanggang sa
muling pagkikita.
Maraming Brods ka JUG MO SA ITAAS
HAIL TO THE CHIEF BROD GP RONNIE. YOU WILL BE SORELY MISSED
Cosme Santiago
==========================
More about Brod Ronnie:
He and his family migrated to Toronto, Canada way back in 1997. While
there, he was an active member of the Canada Chapter and at one point
became an officer.
In 2001, he and his family came to California and resided Concord,
California. He immediately presented himself for service and was made an
officer of the UP Northern California Chapter.
In 2003, he brought his family to Rhode Island and attended frat
activities in New Jersey and New York.
In 2006, he came back to the West Coast - Seattle, WA specifically. He
served the Northwest Chapter in different capacities, and was elected
Grand Princep in 2014. His induction was supposed to be held this July
during the Northwest frat ball, but the brods decided to induct him a week
ago.
Brod Ronnie never knew that he had cancer of the esophagus until he went
for medical examination in August 2014. That was the time when he found
extreme difficulty swallowing food. It was already Stage 4 cancer and had
to undergo several radiation and two chemo sessiond.
Inspite of all the pain and medical diagnosis pointing to the gravity of
his condition, Brod Ronnie never lost faith. Not even when he was given
just a few weeks to live last month; not even during his 52nd birthday
last April 9 when he was told his time is about to come. In all these
travails, Marlene had always been there for him, never leaving him at all
as it was Brod Ronnie's wish.
Surrounded by his family and Northwest brods, Brod Ronnie finally
succumbed at 9:20 p.m Apri 17, 2015, and is survived by his loving wife
Marlene and their two boys and three girls - Maureen, Ryan, Monica, Kevin
and Alexia.
Brod Ronnie donated his two eyes to charity.
Lovingly yours,
Willie Vergara
==========================
To Sister Marlene and the Family of
Brod Ronnie Dimaano:
I am very sorry for this late expression of sympathy as I was in Butuan
City, Mindanao where I had no access to internet.
On behalf of the Forestry Brods here
in the Philippines, please accept our sincere condolences and prayers for
the eternal repose of the soul of our dear brother Ronnie. I had a chance
of meeting brod Ronnie and sister Marlene twice when I attended the NW
frat ball in 2010 (?) and last June 2015 in Seattle WA. He had a very warm
personality and observed to be very active in any of the fraternity
activities. And as expected, sis Marlene was always with him. I am sure
the NW Brods and the Phil-based brods will surely miss him. But he will be
with us in spirit.
Rest in peace, my dear brother, and enjoy the company of our Lord Jesus in
heaven.
Rene de Rueda, UPLB '64
==========================
I join all our Betan Brods. in
prayer for peace and comfort for the wife and family of departed brother
Ronnie.
May he rest in peace and God bless his soul in Christ Jesus our Lord and
our Savior.
Fraternally,
Tito Campomanes
==========================
Ronnie was my batch mate when we
entered the Betan Elite in 1977. I was in third year high school but he
and Jojo Andres were freshmen. The two of them were kilabot ng chicks!
High school boys making out with Sigma Deltans. Pati yamist nina Jojo
Andres.
Ronnie joined UP Beta Sigma as part of batch 80B "Rare", acronym of the 4
Elites in that summer batch - Ronnie Dimaano, Alex Cardenas, Renato 'Yoyoy'
Hernandez and Eufracio 'Jun' Mamaril.
Ronnie's kuya, Tolits'Pretty Boy' Dimaano'74c was idolized by many of us
young brods, for being super tapang. Their house near Crossing became a
safe house and tambayan during my early years with the fraternity.
I remember the Friday afternoons that Ronnie, the late Robbie Paradela'77d
and I would start drinking gin early, in anticipation of the brods coming
over to their place for the usual Friday jug-a-lugs. Iba na ang unang
malasing - bida sa kwentuhan.
Ronnie loved rock music. One of his favorite songs was Eric Clapton's
'Cocaine'. He was just naturally high with that music.
There was one summer that Ronnie got beaten up by the tigs. It was the
start of their downfall in the campus. During the start of registration
for 1st sem, the brods hunted them down and beat them. A few of the tigs
frontliners did not enroll anymore.
The last time we saw each other in the Philippines was in Pangasinan. We
came across each other at the Our Lady of Manaog church. Banal na kami.
Years later he sent me a photo of his family, settled in Canada. I was
happy for him. He proposed that I too should go there because it was easy
to get a Canadian citizenship.
When I came to California, I was delighted that he and his family had
migrated too in Northern CA. They eventually settled in Washington state
where he became active with the Northwest Chapter.
Ronnie wanted to be its GP. In spite of his impending treatment of the
disease he worked hard to get his induction ball going. The BBB members
supported him wholly.
I am sad. But I know that Ronnie is in a better place now.
Rest in peace, my dear Brother Ronnie.
Dutch Aragones 78b
==========================
Well said, brod Dutch. I met Ronnie
during the 2013 NorCal frat reunion. He was vibrant and very energetic.
Even though we were from different eras -- me from the '70s and him in
'80s, we found a common bond. Of course, we talked about his older brother
Tolits "pretty boy". Little did we know that would be our first and last
meeting. But, that's how I will remember brod Ronnie -- vibrant, energetic
and a proud Betan.
I was looking forward to meeting him again this coming July, unfortunately
it was not meant to be. So long brod Ronnie. I'm sure the Northwest
brothers will carry on what you have started.
Jim Gonzalvo UPLB '70B
==========================
Ronnie'80b is part of a UP Los Baños
Betan Family,
Uncle Jimmy'63 Forestry
Utol Tolits'74e
Nephew Julius'99(son of Tolits).
The night brod Dutch was talking about. It was a week before the 2nd sem
1981, November it was, Dutch, not summer. Well, brod Ronnie was drinking &
playing billiards in Agrix with 2 barkadas who were not brods when his
kabarkada felt slighted by a group of 3-4 APOs .He wouldn't hear of it so
they followed the group back to Men's dorm & Ronnie confronted them.
Unknowingly, the APOs had swelled to around 15, Men's dorm being their
tambayan. I think Ronnie had a choice to back down but he didn't. So he
waded into the group & fought & fell. His two companions had ran away &
left him.
The ff afternoon,we saw him with stitched cuts on his head & bruises all
over his body but still in high spirits! We were so overwhelmed by his
bravery... &recklessness that every brod volunteered to join a bigger
strike force because that morning Tolis called on utol bros Ambo'80 & Kiko
Lapis'76, Raymond Mizal'75, Theodore Tongacan'79 & myself (taga identify
lang). We found no one in Men's dorm...the APOS had retreated to the
safety of Santos dorm near the UPLB Gate & when we got there,the APO son
of then Minister of Education Onofre Corpus was posturing by tapping his
back pocket,a signal he had a gun. Kiko stopped Tolits from going down the
jeep & we proceeded to the home of Dante Ramos'74.
That night, 16 masked men returned to Santos dorm & a rumble ensued, shots
from a carbine were fired. The APOs scampered & everything became quiet.
The group waited for their response & none came. The Sikyos in the gate
looked on..helpless.
Enrollment time came a week later & the rumble continued on. The brods got
more scores during this period including two who would later become their
heads in later yrs. The brods even burned a Form5a they got from an APO
despite a plea to have it returned.We were so angry then. That semester
only 7 APOs got enrolled. And in the last clash before they called a
truce, Ronnie was back in the frontline.
Hindi ko sana ikukwento pero nabanggit ni Dutch.
We are all older now & words cannot fit here on how much more than just
our young Betan years we all shared with Ronnie.
Jojo Alejar '79
==========================
Brod Ronnie recruited me to the Betan Elite Society when we were in high
school year 1977. During our Betan Elite days we were already exposed to
frat life. We already had jug-a-lugs and even frats wars. As we graduated
high school we were very eager to enter the next phase of being a Betan,
we joined the UP Beta Sigma Fraternity during the summer of 1980. We were
mere incoming freshmen than and our first activity as college boys was to
be initiated by the most feared fraternity in Los Banos. There were
originally 6 of us, all Betan Elites, presented to the body of the
fraternity but only 4 of us survived the rigorous initiation. Brod Ronnie,
brod Alex Cardenas of the Cardenas Betan brothers, myself (Renato) and
brod Eufracio "Jun" Mamaril thus the "RARE 80B" batch name.
We started college very proud as Beta Sigmans, never experiencing life as
barbarians. We were immediately introduced to the busy fraternity life
during our 1st year with the play "Matang Lawin". Brod Ronnie was lucky
enough to be casted as one of the Guardia Civil ,him being a mestizo and
had a big body built. We also had our share of rumbles during our days in
college, one of the most notable ones was that mentioned by brod Dutch and
brod Jojo.Brod Ronnie would always be loved and missed. Too bad he was not
able to go home during the milestone years of the fraternity and we never
had a chance to relive our glorious years together in the fraternity. To
my high school classmate, my brother in Betan Elite, my co-batch/brother
in UP Beta Sigma Fraternity, I salute you for being a true die hard Betan.
Till we meet again Brod Ronnie.
Yoyoy Hernandez 80b
==========================
Naka-lungkot talaga ang pag panaw ng isa sa naman nating tunay na kapatid
in the person of Brod Ronnie Dimaano '80b. I am truly saddened by his
passing especially of late when we hear of his great efforts and energy in
leading and supporting the Northwest USA brods. At the same time, I
believe I speak for many brods when I say that even as we feel sad because
of his passing, we feel gratified and proud in knowing and having a
brother among us, who in his difficult moments, fought bravely and
gracefully and with great courage did selflessly devote himself to his
loved ones and to our Fraternity.
Hindi ko na inabot si Ronnie when I was a resident in the mid 80's but
only during elder and alumni gatherings in Los Banos and other Betan jug
-a -lugs. But, the stories about him gaya nung ni-recount ni Dutch and
Jojo were always glorious "bonfire" legend tales that energized and
inspired every Brod who heard it then. Hearing it here in these forums
today have the same effect and gives us a better appreciation of the good,
brave and noble Betan, that Ronnie was. I guess it was his way of paying
tribute to the other legendary, brave and noble Betans in the Dimaano clan
( Jimmy '63, Tolits '74, and later on Julius '99 , and sis Armida '90--
daughter of Jimmy). Let us continue to honor his memory by remembering him
always especially for the work, support and devotion with which he
supported and uplifted the UP Beta Sigma in Los Banos as well as the other
alumni Chapters he was part of in his later life.
Mabuhay ka Brod Ronnie! Rest in Peace! You will be missed but never
forgotten!
Til we meet again, Brother!
Chito Reynoso 84A
==========================
My prayers go out to Brod Ronnie's
wife and children. My sincere condolences.
JJ Jayme
==========================
Sis Marlene and Children of Brod Ronnie Dimaano, Maureen, Ryan, Monica,
Kevin and Alexia, Grand Princeps Nick Panlasigui, Brother Betans and
Honored guests, Ladies and Gentlemen.
Good afternoon.
TO EVERYTHING THERE IS A SEASON AND A TIME TO EVERY PURPOSE UNDER THE
HEAVENS. Ecc:3:1
Sa bawat bagay ay may kapanahunan, at panahon sa bawat panukala sa
silong ng langit:
Panahon ng kapanganakan, at panahon ng kamatayan; panahon ng pagtatanim,
at panahon ng pagbunot ng itinanim;
Panahon ng pagpatay, at panahon ng pagpapagaling; panahon ng paggiba, at
panahon ng pagtatayo;
Panahon ng pagiyak, at panahon ng pagtawa; panahon ng pagtangis, at
panahon ng pagsayaw;
Panahon ng pagibig, at panahon ng
kapuutan; panahon ng digma, at panahon ng kapayapaan.
Our brother Ronnie Dimaano lived the season of his life to the fullest.
Mario Padua Dimaano, Ronnie to us his brother Betans and to all those who
knew him well was born in one of the most beautiful towns of the
Philippines, noted for its hot springs, at the foothills of Mt Makiling
along the shores of Lake Laguna, on April 09,1963 in Los Banos, Laguna.
There are many tales and stories about his young years, which is easily
described by his brother Joselito and wife Marlene in a tagalog term "malikot".
In this country of political correctness it can be described in the
acronym, ADD or ADHD. He was a hyperactive kid who cannot sit still for a
moment, terrorizing his gentle parents, Juanito Palis Dimaano an
agriculturist and his loving, patient and long suffering mother Exaltacion
Padua a registered Midwife. His partner in crime was his older brothe
Joselito (Jose). They had another sibling a girl born between the two
brothers named Doris.
Little Ronnie had a knock of getting himself in a fix. This story is told
of how he fell off the window of their home breaking an ankle. When he was
six years old, the local barangay was preparing food and delicacies for
the fiesta. The neighbors were preparing a local delicacy of coconut and
molasses. While the neighbors were stirring the molasses, little Ronnie
fell into the cauldron of boiling molasses causing third degree burns of
his lower torso,hips and lower extremities. He was rushed to the local
hospital of Calamba, Laguna then finally to the Manila Medical Ctr to
control a rapidly invading infection. He recovered from this catastrophe.
Residuals of these burns are cicatrization along his left hip and
shortening of his left femur causing a limp when walking.
In his high school years, his brother described him as a "rolling stone".
Every year he enrolled in a different school, restless and full of
undirected energies, finally found a home in the Beta Sigma Fraternity in
UP High School in Los Banos. Here, in an environment of Filipino macho
mystic he excelled by proving to his peers, his toughness and endurance in
the near brutal initiation process. He also developed his leadership
skills within the fraternity. Graduating from high school, he matriculated
at UP Los Banos University which is the seat of Science and the study of
utilization of the natural resources of the Philippines ans SE Asia
countries. At UP Los Banos, he continued his fraternity life by joining
the college level of the Beta Sigma Fraternity. Joining and bonding closer
to his brother Joselito who himself was making history in the fraternity.
He left UP Los Banos and transferred to Letran College in Calamba, Laguna
where he earned his degree in economics.
In his young college years, Ronnie was into body building as this was
expected in the Beta Sigma to be proficient in martial arts. So, it was in
this instance while he was pumping irons and hanging on monkey bars
showing off his bulging deltoids and pectorals that he caught the eyes of
young Marlene Rosario who was visiting from Dagupan, Pangasinan a city
about 150 miles north of Los Banos. It was love at first sight for both of
them. The young Marlene was stricken by Mario and vice-versa. Very soon
both youth became inseparable and was a fixture in the gathering halls of
Los Banos.
Graduating from Letran College, he was employed in the Agrarian reform
office of the Department of Natural Resources. His restless spirit still
in full flight he brought his growing family to Toronto, Canada with baby
Maureen and Ryan. All the while he was flexing his wings he broadened his
knowledge by earning more college credits. He left Toronto, Canada and
migrated to California where some members of Marlene' family had settled.
Still restless and searching for better situation for his growing family
he moved to Seattle, WA fifteen to sixteen years ago and finally sought
employment with ICOS a Gentek corporation. While working for ICOS, he
worked assiduously, resulting to the company's rapid growth and expansion.
In the year 2005 he was introduced to the local chapter of the Beta Sigma
Fraternity by Cosme Santiago. He was encouraged to join. From the start,
he directed his energies to find ways to better the local chapter of the
Beta Sigma. Once settled, he made it known to the older members like me,
that his goal was to become the Grand Princeps of the chapter. "Such was
the measure of this man's confidence and drive, I thought. There goes a
man of my kindred spirit, a stout hearted man, resolved, mission and goal
oriented just like most members of our local chapter. Given the chance to
prove his mettle he took the challenge for leadership, overhauled our
record keeping, computerized our messaging methods and creating our NW
Beta Sigma website, the first of its kind in our fraternity. His restless
and creative spirit now directed and focused, he organized our annual
blood drive, bowling competition and even organized a golf tournament.
Always, he aimed high to prove his strength and ability to achieve his
goals. The elders in the chapter watched him from the sidelines and guided
his restless energies for the betterment of the Fraternity and the
enjoyment of his family. He focused his eyes and vision on the prize for
the enhancement of the fraternity and pride of his family.
The Betan brothers in his chapter, having recognized his abilities decided
to compensate his efforts by bestowing on him the high honor of the office
of Grand Princeps which he richly deserved. So, on 19 April 2015 while in
his hospital bed, the NW chapter conferred on him the honor by inducting
him to the office of the Grand Princeps of the Fraternity. With our full
knowledge of his medical and clinical condition that he may not be able to
execute the responsibilities nor survive the length of his tenure the
induction was carried out with unanimous consent. Observing his last few
moments in extremist, with his loving family and Beta Sigma brothers
around him he fought and struggled for life as a true Beta Sigman to the
very end.
Sis Marlene and children your husband and dad possessed the rare qualities
for which our brotherhood is known for. He demonstrated valor and courage
throughout the different seasons of his life. He was of generous spirit,
gallant and noble, honest and fair. He fought for the welfare of the
family he loved. A gentleman and a scholar, a giant of note among the
giants of the Beta Sigma. We in our chapter are proud to have been
associated with him. Now, he is gone , but we are assured by the Grace of
God we will meet him again in the eastern gate of the celestial city
across the river Jordan, where all stalwart Betans meet to welcome a newly
arrive Beta Sigman departing from this God's green earth.
Sleep well our young princeps the angels guard you in you sleep.
With due respect to all I would like to close by reading to you again a
short poem I composed for my young Betan brother while observing him in
his last hours of agony.
Gently Leave in Peace
Through vales of peace may you ascend
to promised planes above
Where comfort shall await you
In those summerlands of love
Although our griefs are deep and raw
Although our pains are great
Know that you are still with us
For soon we will be together again
For in God's time we will meet again
Of this we are sure
We love you much on this God's green earth
In your absence, even more
Adieu our young princeps
This NW chapter you have blessed
Now, bow in sorrow and grief
The angels will attend you and lead you to the Blessed L and
Where all stalwart Betans go
Goodbye. I salute you
adopted....J.C.Sim, MD
To Brod Ronnie's children: Your fathers time has come to go home for now
our God has beckoned him so, do not shed a painful tear but whisper in his
waiting ear Farewell my darling Dad farewell and thank you for all the
love we had from you
Brod Ronnie, I salute you and stand in awe before you. I bid you goodnight
for I shall see you in the morning in a Land of endless days where all
tears are wiped away and all will bask in the love and joy of our Creator.
.
Adieu.
I thank you All
JOEL C. SIM, MD
USA COL.RET.
Beta Sigma NW
==========================
Perhaps the most cherished moment in the abbreviated life of die-hard Beta
Sigman Ronnie Dimaano was when he was formally inducted on his bedside as
our incoming Grand Princep. Even as he was on the threshold of his final
journey.
Brod GP Ronnie is one Betan whose brief stint in the Northwest will be
remembered for his dedication to the fraternity as organizer of the Blood
Donation Drive and as a dedicated graphics artist.
We laugh together, jug-a-lug together, argue together, grieve and cry
together. We bond as brothers for life that way. Brod Ronnie understood
this perfectly. He is one Beta Sigman who will not be forgotten easily.
To his widow Marlene and his children he leaves behind....know by heart
and mind that you were blessed with a loving husband, a noble father, a
principled warrior . Most of all, he lived the ideals and virtues of a
gentleman and a genuine fraternity man.
Sluggo Rigor
==========================
FAREWELL, MY INAANAK
I met Ronnie when he was still studying at the UP Rural High school. He
was a member of the Betan Elite and a younger brother to the legendary
“Pretty Boy”, brod Lito Dimaano. Always smiling and very soft spoken, he
was always a gentleman and a very amiable individual.
When he joined the fraternity, he chose me to be his sponsor. From then
on, Ronnie fondly called me ninong and up to the last conversations and
message exchanges we had, he never failed to call me as such. I never did
get to tell him this, but I am deeply honored that he chose me to be his
sponsor, he turned out to be a great husband to Marlene and an awesome
father to his children, and he served the brotherhood very well.
I will miss him and it hurts that he had to go so early, but then, the
Grand Architect of the Universe has it all planned out, and when it’s time
for any of us to go, it’s time. I cannot fathom the pain and sadness that
Marlene and the children, and brod Lito and the rest of the Dimaano family
went through and are going through. TAOS PUSO AKONG NAKIKIRAMAY SA INYO.
I never had a chance to meet up with Ronnie while here in the US and we
were both looking forward to seeing each other in July.
Inaanak, farewell, I’ll see you later…down the road…
Ninong olraC (Malabanan)
==========================
Today my beloved Ronnie will be laid
to rest .He will be leaving us on earth, but will be welcome in heaven
where he will suffer no pain. Thank you for being with us throughout the
ordeal. If there's one thing that Ronnie's illness and passing away have
taught us, it is the beauty and true meaning of brotherhood, family ties,
and friendship .The love you've shown us throughout the ordeal has made
the pain bearable and has given me and our children strength during the
lowest point of our lives.
The words of comfort, the tears you shed, the various form of support you
extended to us are deeply appreciated . Thank you Beta Sigma Fraternity,
thank you dear friends, thank you to his CMC ICOS BIOLOGICS co-workers and
friends, thank you dear relatives, and thank you everyone .
Marlene Dimaano
=========================================================================================
Family Pictures
m
Folsom Lake,
CA with UP North - 2001
Beta Sigma Northwest on
Super Bowl Sunday - Feb 2010
Ronnie's 49th b'day -
April 9, 2012
Golden Gate, San
Francisco, CA - 2012
Fisherman's Wharf,
San Francisco, CA - 2012
Lombard ("The
Crookedest") Street, San Francisco, CA -
2012
San Diego, CA - 2012
Weed, CA
Lake Tahoe, NV - 2012
"Ronnie, The Ironman" -
Halloween 2012
Beta Sigma Northwest
- 2012
North Creek, WA -
Valentine 2013
Ronnie hits big "5",
turns 50 - April 9, 2013
San Francisco, CA -
Memorial Day weekend 2013
Universal Studios, CA
- 2013
Ronnie becomes a US
citizen - 2013
Marlene's
select photos
Christmas 2012
Ronnie celebrates
52nd b'day - April 9, 2015
Ronnie & family at
Swedish Medical Center, Seattle, WA
Elegy To A Fallen
Brother
by Jim Gonzalvo
Rest our brother, now that you have reached the end of life’s journey
A journey where our paths crossed as Beta Sigmans
We might have lived in a different place and time, but nevertheless we
were brothers
And shared a common bond as Betans
We came from all corners of the islands and all walks of life
But fate would have it, we became brothers, bound by our Credo, Motto and
Principles
No matter where we came from, no matter where we ended
It’s those times we shared together that really counted
Times at the “tambayan” with the usual “alaskahan”
Times we were joking, laughing, singing, philosophizing or just plain
daydreaming
We lived it day-by-day without thought of life’s passing
Those were the times when we were young and indestructible so it seemed
Times when as brothers we depended on each other
And even during our times of discords, we treated each other as brothers
Those were the days we relive and remember every time we get together
Memories that are etched in our brains as if they were just yesterday
We are Betans at times bigger than life, but we are still mortals in flesh
And so we go, ashes to ashes, dust to dust
But, what we do in between is up to us
You and I chose to be Beta Sigmans and brothers for life
REST IF YOU MUST, Brother
Ronnie
Until we meet again….
