Lamberto Enriquez Aquino

Lamberto E. Aquino

April 16, 1952 – August 28, 2025

Lamberto E. Aquino passed away peacefully in his home in Carson, California, at the age of 73, surrounded by his wife and three daughters lovingly holding his hands and gently touching his head. As he came into this world at 2:38am and left at 8:32am, the mirrored symmetry of these times offers a quiet comfort of the poetic nature of his life.

Lamberto, also known as “Bert,” “Regalado,” “Reggie,” or “Ejit,” was born in Cavite City, Philippines. He had a difficult upbringing in poverty, yet despite his own struggles, he was known for helping others less fortunate. As a teenager, he joined the Philippines Marines, where he served for seven years. He fought in the dense forests of Mindanao and guarded the Malacañang Palace before getting honorably discharged as a Staff Sergeant. Although his time in the Philippines Marines ended, his fight for a better life was far from over.

He immigrated to California in May 1979 with only a dime in his pocket, which he used to call his older brother for a ride from the airport. Focused on building a better life in the U.S., he initially earned a modest income at Church’s Chicken and slept in his car before meeting his wife, Ruperta, in March 1980. Formally, his employment included the roles of handyman, supplies manager, and baggage carrier, but he worked hard in all areas of his life. He was a self-made man, who together with Ruperta, saved up to buy their own home and raise three girls. One of his proudest accomplishments was seeing all his children graduate college and excel in their respective careers.

Like all of us, he was a complex person. He was a man of few words, but his actions made a resounding impact on those around him. He was a serious man that commanded respect, but he had a big laugh and a big heart. He was an anxious man, but he was always practical and prepared in the event of a surprise. He was a stubborn man, but it was the same persistence that allowed him to tackle any challenges that came his way.

He was afflicted with various illnesses near the end of his life, yet his character of resilience and selflessness never wavered. Before taking his last breaths, he uttered “matapang” (or "brave” in Tagalog), a gentle encouragement to himself and his family to be strong in the face of adversity. He was brave all his life – now he can finally “take a day off” after fighting for the life he imagined for himself, his wife, his children, and his grandchildren.

Lamberto is survived by his wife, three daughters, two grandchildren, and countless friends and family that love him dearly. He will forever be remembered as a kind, hardworking man who prepared guests snacks of tropical fruit, played the Lotto so he could buy a house for his kids, taught everyone how to drive, stayed true to his word, played innocent pranks, and laid the flooring and roofing of his home – all to make sure his loved ones were safe and secure.

In lieu of flowers, the family humbly accepts donations to assist with unexpected funeral expenses during this time of profound sadness and loss. Your generosity and support mean the world during this incredibly difficult time.