In Loving Memory of

Nicanor "Elmer" Domingo Amao

October 11, 1948 – September 12, 2026

Our beloved Nicanor “Elmer” Domingo Amao, known to family and friends as Mr. Elmer Amao, peacefully passed away at his home in Torrance, California, on September 12, 2026, at the age of 77. He leaves behind a life defined by love, faith, friendship, hard work, generosity, and devotion to family.

Born on October 11, 1948, in Manila, Philippines, Mr. Elmer was a hardworking and determined young man who believed deeply in the value of education. As a working student, he pursued his studies at the University of the East in Manila and Northwestern University in Laoag City while working toward his dreams.

He went on to build a long and meaningful career with Philippine Airlines (PAL), a company he proudly served for more than two decades. Much of his career was spent at the Reservations Control Center (RCC) in Manila as a Senior Reservations Agent. He later continued his career with Mansour Travel, Salman Travel, and as Regional Reservations Coordinator, ISP SNL, where he was fondly known as “Tito Liit.” His years with PAL gave him friendships that lasted a lifetime.

His professional journey later brought him to the United States and, for many years, to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It was during his time in Saudi Arabia that he encountered Couples for Christ, beginning a spiritual journey that became an important part of his life. His faith continued to grow, and he eventually became a Household Leader, guiding others through prayer and fellowship. Most importantly, he helped build a strong foundation of faith within his own family, a foundation that continues to guide and unite them.

He had a natural gift for friendship and would often say, “I have a friend there,” whether speaking of Europe, the UK, Japan, Hawaii, different parts of the United States, or places throughout the Philippines. He truly meant it. Wherever he went, he seemed to leave behind a friend, and those friendships often became lasting connections for the entire family.

Mr. Elmer was a man of remarkable patience. He listened intently, rarely rushed to judgment, and gave people the time and understanding they needed. His quiet patience, generosity, and willingness to help others were among the qualities most remembered by those who knew him.

He also enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, including dining out, discovering new foods, playing pilota, bowling, listening to Luciano Pavarotti, and following his beloved Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Dodgers. His collection of team caps became a familiar part of him and a fond reminder of his playful personality.

He loved Las Vegas and its casino resorts, especially playing slots and Pai Gow. It was a favorite place he returned to throughout his life, including one last trip just weeks before his passing. Whether lucky or not, what mattered most was sharing the joy with his wife and children, turning winnings into meals, laughter, and cherished memories together.

Mr. Elmer was naturally bright and had an exceptional memory. He loved trivia and remained sharp and curious even in his final months. One of his proudest accomplishments was becoming a U.S. citizen, passing his naturalization test with flying colors.

His mornings reflected his deep faith and curiosity. He would begin his day with Daily Mass, followed by the Rosary, and then catch up on the news. His faith in God remained at the center of his life.

This year, Mr. Elmer and his beloved wife, Rosario, celebrated 40 years of marriage. His love for her was steady and devoted, reflected in the many years they spent caring for and standing by one another. He was also a devoted father who loved each of his children equally and made each one feel valued. He shared his wisdom, listened intently, and guided them with love. To his family, he was more than a father. He was their Papa, their stronghold, the one who gave his strength to keep them together.

He leaves behind his beloved wife of 40 years, Mrs. Rosario Amao, with whom he shared a life filled with love, family, and cherished memories, and their three children, whose initials lovingly form “ACE”: Antonette Geraldine “A.G.” (Marisar) Amao, Claire Rose (Jonathan) Garcia, and Earl Ricanor (Maria Beatriz) Amao. He is also lovingly remembered by his beloved furbabies, especially his loyal companion, Chico the Pug, who remained faithfully by his side until his final days. His other cherished pets, Chichi and Bubbles, were also a special part of his life and brought him companionship and joy. They were more than pets; they were part of the family.

Nicanor “Elmer” Amao’s life was a journey of perseverance, hard work, friendship, generosity, curiosity, patience, and above all, faith. He was a remarkably patient man, always willing to listen, understand, and give others the time they needed. Most importantly, his deep faith in God guided the way he lived, loved, and cared for others. His greatest legacy lives on in the people he helped, the friendships he nurtured, the faith he shared, and most of all, the family he loved so deeply.

In Loving Memory

As we gather to celebrate Papa’s life and honor the love, faith, friendships, and memories he leaves behind, we invite family and friends to join us in prayer and remembrance.

Holy Mass & Visitation

Friday, September 25 at 10:00 AM

Green Hills Memorial Park

27501 S. Western Ave.

Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275

The Mass and visitation will be followed by the Interment of his Urn.

For those who cannot be with us in person, a livestream link will be shared so that loved ones from near and far, including those around the world, may join us in honoring Papa.

Your memory will forever remain in our hearts. 🕊️

With love and gratitude, Amao Family