Avelino Guevarra Bautista

Avelino Guevarra Bautista, a beacon of warmth and hospitality, passed away peacefully on September 30, 2026, surrounded by his cherished loved ones. Born on November 10, 1939, in the quaint town of Santa Cruz Lubao, Pampanga, Philippines, Avelino lived a life rich in love, dedication, and service. The son of the late Luis Bautista and Dominga Guevarra Bautista, Avelino was the kind of individual whose presence brought joy and comfort to those around him. He shared his life with his beloved wife, Daisy Francisco Bautista, whom he married on July 14, 1963. Together, they celebrated 63 beautiful years of marriage, filled with moments of love and laughter. Their union was blessed with five children: Louis, Jocelyn, twins Moises and Raymond, and Maria Rosario. Avelino was also a loving father-in-law to Mabel (nee Cheng) and Ellen (nee Diego) and proud grandfather to five grandchildren: Rachel (Chris), Corey, Melissa, Ryan, and Mikayla, each of whom held a special place in his heart. Avelino pursued his education with passion, graduating from Santa Cruz Central Institute High School before earning a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from Araneta University in Manila. Following his graduation, he returned to his hometown, where he worked as a Farm Technician. In a bold move in 1971, Avelino immigrated to the United States, where he initially took on various odd jobs before building a steady career. He worked as a foreman at Macy's Distributing Center for 34 years and later as a Maintenance Technician at California Pacific Medical Center, retiring at the age of 65. Faithful to his roots, Avelino was one of the founding members of Cruzanians, USA, an organization dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for students in Pampanga, Philippines. Through his efforts, numerous schools received essential resources, and students were awarded scholarships, leaving a lasting impact on the community he loved. Avelino was renowned for his culinary skills, often gathering friends and family around his table to share in his love of food and togetherness. He was an exceptional host, delighting in cooking for loved ones and bringing joy through his hospitality. His annual Christmas celebrations were legendary, growing so large that they eventually had to be moved to larger venues to accommodate everyone. Avelino’s generous spirit extended beyond his family; he welcomed many friends and relatives from the Philippines into his home as they began new lives in the United States. A man of immense kindness and generosity, Avelino had a unique ability to make everyone feel welcome and loved. Avelino was predeceased by his parents, his sister Estefaina, brothers Fernando and Alberto, and his beloved son Moises. He is survived by his devoted wife Daisy, his children Louis, Jocelyn, Raymond, and Maria Rosario, his grandchildren, and his sister Maria Ligaya Bautista Flores, along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews who will carry on his legacy. In honor of Avelino’s memory, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice. His life was a testament to the power of love, family, and community, and his spirit will continue to inspire all who knew him.