Robert Sumaoang

A Sisters loving and final tribute to…

Robert (Bobby) Apolinar Sumaoang

On Friday, July 8th, 2022, our family lost a branch from our Family Tree of Life. A dear and loving Son, Brother, Dad, Lolo, Uncle and Friend, Bobby was called Home to be reunited with our parents, Federico Nool Sumaoang and Epifania Apolinar Sumaoang. Since 2015, his health was on the decline after he suffered a brain bleed/stroke. Unfortunately, diabetes, heart and kidney disease developed and kidney dialysis became a part of his weekly life. He was stubborn, headstrong and determined to carry on with his life as normal as possible, but injuries from a car accident took its toll.

Bobby was born in Seattle, at Columbus hospital on September 20th, 1952. He was the 2nd child and 1st born son to “Fred and Fannie” and little brother to Me. He was also the big brother to Tracy, who came 15 years later. The family resided In south Seattle, Rainier Valley for the entire time.

Bobby attended John Muir Elementary, Asa Mercer Junior High and Franklin High School. He made the Franklin High School Cheer Team as a yell leader which made him pretty popular and graduated in 1970.

Two of the most influential organizations he grew up in was the Philippine War Brides, our parent’s organization, and the Filipino Youth Activities (FYA). We were exposed to and learned about our culture, traditions, history, food, family and camaraderie. He was a member of the drill team, FYA Princesa Drill Team Cumbanchero Percussioneers and Mandayan Marchers. Being able to travel and perform in many cities in the USA was invaluable and the lifelong friendships made are even more cherished.

Bobby was employed by Bemis Bag Manufacturing for a time, then worked the remainder of his career for Konica as a technician setting up and repairing office machines.

Bobby met, dated and married Debbie Taniguchi on May 2, 1985 and they were together for 19 years. Exactly one year after their wedding, on May 2, 1986, their 1st handsome son, Devin was born and 2 years later, March 2, 1988, their beautiful daughter, Cherise was born.

After his marriage ended, he remained a bachelor and lived his life the way he wanted. His children always came first and our families made it a point to gather for dinners, holidays and special events.

Bobby was a free sprit, loved and enjoyed life and having a fun time with his friends. Many of which have been lifetime friends. He spent endless happy hours fishing on his small Boston Whaler with the Tengu fishing club, bowling on leagues at Imperial Lanes, playing darts at South China restaurant, playing tennis, golf, and learning martial arts. Most recently he enjoyed going to the casino and the race track. Dancing was his forte, he could really get his groove on and his lovely partners totally loved it. His favorite hang outs for bar hopping and karaoke were the Bush, 4 Seas, Sun Ya/ Ocean Star and Terry’s Kitchen. Many memorable times were spent with dear friends.

Bobby is survived by:

Son…Devin (Shawnna) Sumaoang

Grandchildren…Serena and Devin Jr

Daughter…Cherise (Jon) Saechao

Grandchildren…Rizel and Jensen

Sister…Betty Sumaoang Ragudos and family Brother…Tracy (Sandy) Sumaoang and family

Bobby’s great smile and humorous personality will be deeply missed but Love endures and we will meet again!

We wish to thank the NW Kidney Center for the 6 years of treatments Bobby had 3 times a week. To Swedish Issaquah and Harborview Medical Hospitals, Columbia Funeral Home and Calvary Cemetery for the care he received and assistance with his final arrangements.

Life is short, unpredictable and fragile…. believe in God, keep the faith, love, respect and be kind!

Our families are grateful and thankful for your calls, cards, texts, flowers and gifts of concern, support, friendship and love. May God bless us all with comfort, peace, and love.

Family and Friends of BOBBY SUMAOANG…

His Families invite you to his Memorial and Celebration of Life….

TERRY’S KITCHEN
Friday, July 29th, 2022 at 5pm
5625 119th Ave SE
Bellevue, Wa. 98006
425-590-9545

Please do NOT park in front of the Asian Market until after 7p. Reserved for their customers until they close. On street parking or across the street available.

INURNMENT…Father Art Gramaje CMF
Monday, August 1st, 2022 at 11am
CALVARY CEMETERY 
5041 35th Ave NE
Seattle, Wa 98105

Bobby loved to dance and party so we hope you can be there to celebrate him!

Thank you once again for all of your love, support and friendship!