Robert Aldor Patawe

This is the eulogy I gave at my brother’s memorial mass. Sharing it here feels right, as a way to remember and honor him.

Kuya Robert was one of the kindest souls I have ever known. He had a warmth about him that made people feel comfortable and valued. He treated everyone with fairness, respect, and genuine care, never asking for anything in return. He was the type of person who made an impact not by grand gestures, but by the quiet consistency of his goodness. He was always willing to help, always present when you needed him, always giving more than what was expected—whether at work, in friendships, or within the community.

What stood out most about Kuya Robert was his joyful spirit. He had this lightness about him, this ability to embrace life with gratitude and contentment. He didn’t dwell on worries or let difficulties weigh him down. Instead, he faced everything with quiet strength, unwavering faith, and a smile that never faded. No matter the situation, Kuya Robert remained positive. He found joy in the simple things, in the people around him, and in the everyday moments that others might take for granted.

Beyond his kindness and optimism, Kuya Robert was deeply faithful. He never missed Sunday Mass, and his devotion to prayer was unwavering. His faith was not just something he practiced—it was something he lived. It guided him, strengthened him, and shaped the way he treated others. He was a quiet source of encouragement, always reminding those around him of the power of faith, kindness, and gratitude.

Kuya Robert never sought recognition, yet he left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. He carried himself with humility, worked hard in everything he did, and found fulfillment in simply being there for others. He was the kind of person who could make anyone feel at home, who could bring comfort without even trying.

Losing Kuya Robert is a heartbreak that words cannot fully capture. Life will never be the same without him, and his absence leaves an emptiness that cannot be filled. But as much as this loss hurts, I know that his love, his laughter, and his spirit will stay with us. He lived a life of goodness, and that goodness does not disappear. It lives on in every person he has touched, in every kindness he has shown, in every memory we carry with us.

If Kuya Robert were here, I know he wouldn’t want us to dwell in sorrow. He would want us to remember him with warmth, with laughter, with faith. He would want us to continue living with the same kindness and gratitude that he embodied every day.

So today, as we say goodbye, let’s not just mourn his passing—let’s celebrate his life. Let’s honor him by carrying forward the love he gave so freely, by treating others with the same kindness he did, and by keeping our faith strong, just as he would have wanted.

Kuya Robert, I love you. Thank you for your kindness, your faith, your unwavering presence in our lives. You will always be with us. Until we meet again.

Kuya Robert was always kind and a joy to be around. He was a good friend to have at FreshCo. We will miss him very much.

Robert was one of the first persons that welcomed us to Canada when we came here over 10 years ago. He gave us advices on getting settled by sharing his own experiences. From time to time we would see each other in family gatherings where he greets us with a warm hug and his "big" smile. Thank you Bert for treating us as part of your family. We will not forget you.

To the whole family, Ate Girlie and Kuya Neil, we pray that God will grant you the strength that you need to get through this difficult time.

Today, we remember and honor a dear friend, Robert. Your kindness, laughter, and warmth touched so many lives, and it’s hard to believe you’re no longer with us. You brought joy to every moment, and the memories we shared will stay in our hearts forever. Though you may be gone, your spirit lives on in the love and friendship you left behind. Rest in peace, Robert. You will always be missed and never forgotten

Uncle Robert,

Thank you so much for everything. I will cherish our memories together.
I always admired how you brightened up a place and made everyone around you always feel comfortable too. You were such a great influence in character and in faith. From your positive and lively personality, and how with your true faith in Jesus, really, the fruits of faith always shined through.

I am glad God gave us further away family the opportunity to spend quality time with you again all together not too long ago.

And, if it weren’t for you, I don’t know if I would be doing what I love today.
There were many times when I wanted to give up, but one of the main reasons I never gave up is that I would always end up remembering your words of genuine belief in me and encouragement when I was first starting out almost 10 years ago.
Your words that you had said in one instance lasted much longer and gave me the courage to push through each and every doubt as years went by.
This is just one of the many instances of your sincere positive impact in our lives.

Uncle Robert, I will really miss you. But remembering your true faith in Jesus, saved by grace through faith, we can be rest assured that you are happily in God’s presence in His eternal heavenly kingdom!

Love you,
Britney

"Gone from our sight but always in our hearts'

To our dear friend Wowie, a truly special friend. I will always remember your bright smile, happy face and D'barkads countless moments shared with laughter, silly jokes and the unforgettable get-together and foof trips even in the midst of the coldest winter. You are such an inspiration to many because of your genuine love, care and kindness for everyone around you. In as much that I want to express into words all the good things that I want to say about you, I know the space here won't be enough. But to say the least, our friendship (with Mars Ghie and Tess) is something very special that equate to this: Good times + Crazy friends = Amazing memories. Memories that will always be treasured in our hearts. Rest for now in our Lord's loving arms, until we meet again. Love and prayers - Beb and Balingit Family.

Dear Tito Robert,

Thank you for the beautiful memories. You taught me that family is precious, and that family is a blessing. I just know you’re binge watching the Simpsons in Heaven…may you rest in peace. Love you forever Tito.

Love always,
Kristen xoxo

I had the privilege of calling Wowie my friend. He was the embodiment of kindness and care, always going out of his way to make everyone around him feel valued and important. The bond that we shared from the very first day of work, alongside Beb and Tess, grew into something truly special. It was this closeness that led me to ask them to be the Godparents of my daughter, solidifying our friendship further. We became "Mars" and "Pars".
Pareng Wowie's practicality and grounded nature made him an incredible problem solver. He had a rare gift of thinking outside the box, approaching challenges with such ease and creativity, always finding ways to make life just a little simpler and better for everyone. His "firecracker whistle" during karaoke nights was as iconic as his smile, and it's something we'll all miss dearly.
While we will forever miss his presence, we can find comfort in knowing that Pareng Wowie's spirit lives on in the way he touched our lives. His generosity, laughter, his care for others--it all continues to inspire us.
Parang Wowie, thank you for the friendship, for the joy and light you brought into our lives. We will cherish your memory forever.
Rest in peace in the loving arms of our Heavenly Father.

Thank you for everything you have done for me, especially when you visited us in Hawaii and when we were in Canada. I will always love and miss you Uncle🩷

Robert is my younger brother. I call him “Bet” or
“Bert”. There’s no dull moment when he’s around, always smiling and very friendly, always there to lend a helping hand very humble. You’re such a blessing to so many people. And I’m so proud of you.

I will never forget your surprise visit here in Hawaii April 18, 2023. Mama was so happy to see you and talk stories with you. We had a lot of fun, eat out and bonding with your nieces Shannel, Britney and Kellsey. They enjoyed your jokes and company.
I missed you Bet, our family will never be the same without you.
Though you’ve gone to a better place, your love remains with us, lighting our path forward. We carry your memory in our hearts, a treasure that time cannot erase.The joy you brought,the moments we shared,will forever be cherished and remembered.Though you’ve gone left us way too soon,your life was a beautiful gift.

I love you Bet,
your Ate❣️

Bes(Robert)

Robert and I started at freshco together. We were hired and trained together even before while the store was still under construction we trained cashiers together in hard hats. He one day told me I was his bestie a few days into training. From then on we called each other bes. He always got excited when I would bring him some home cooked food. He would laugh, clap his hands and hug me and say “thank you bes” i his soft calm voice.

Bes was hands down one of the kindest most generous people I know. He never let anything ruin his mood. He had such a sunny deposition with everything. And I will forever be grateful to have been part of his life even just for a while.

I heard you bes. You came to visit me at work. Even before I found out that you passed. I heard your joyful laugh in the lunch room. I hurried up but no one was there.

I will miss you forever bes. Visit me anytime. Till we meet again.

Robert (Wowie) was a beautiful soul.

He was kind, caring, and unwavering in his faith. He carried a light within him. He was always upbeat, effortlessly thoughtful, and carried himself with quiet grace.

Wowie was playful and offered wisdom with a noble heart. His presence brought warmth and joy to everyone lucky enough to know him.

Losing him at just 52 is a heartbreaking loss.

My deepest condolences to his family, especially his devoted sister, Ate Ghey. May time, love, and prayers bring healing and peace.

Rest in eternal light, Wowie. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.

Frank

My heart bleeds every time I think of you. I know I will never hear your voice or even your laugh . You became a missing person in our life so soon.

Robert was such a wonderful person. His laughter was always contagious, everyone smiling ear to ear. He also loved to help people, whenever someone ask him for help, he gave 110% of himself to help them.
I will never forget the last time we had our family reunion here in New York, we had the best time, it brought a lot of happy memories during our childhood days. Not in million years expecting to be our last time with you!
Though in this grieving time, “what we have once enjoyed deeply we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.
Wherever you are , I hope you found peace and I know you will always be in my heart, your name will never be forgotten. You will be a source of inspiration for me and to everyone else who knows you.
I want to say I love you Bet, I will see you someday, just hang in there. We will meet again. For now , just rest in peace🙏
Love you ,
Ana

Wowie was a very close cousin of mine, and I have countless fond memories of us growing up together. We spent a lot of time at each other’s homes — playing, going to the military base swimming pool, or simply hanging out. He had the coolest collection of toys that any boy would dream of, and I always admired how much he loved and cared for their family dogs.

Wowie shared a special bond with his mom, being the only boy among three sisters. That closeness shaped him into the kind, thoughtful, and loving person we all knew.

He had many friends, both in the Philippines and in Winnipeg, because he was naturally warm, cheerful, and always wore a smile. Wowie excelled at his work, not just because of his dedication and strong work ethic, but because he genuinely loved connecting with people. He was always supportive, ready to lend a helping hand, and carried a positive energy wherever he went.

No matter what life threw at him, Wowie faced it with unwavering faith and a calm spirit. I don’t remember ever seeing him stressed — I truly believe that was because of his deep trust in God. His faith always came first, guiding him through life with gratitude and contentment. He found joy in the simple things and taught those around him how to live in the present.

Wowie was one of the smartest yet humblest people I’ve ever known. His passing has left an incredible void, and I wish we had more time together. He was taken from us far too soon, but his memory — and the beautiful person he was — will leave a lasting impression on all of us.

I love you, Wowie. You will always be in my heart.

With love,
Your cousin, Grace.

May you rest in peace, Robert! My deepest condolences to the bereaved family.

Our deepest condolences to the Aldor-Patawe Family. Robert will always be remembered for his kindness and warmth. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time. May he rest in peace.

My husband and I had the privilege of meeting Robert in December 2012, shortly after we immigrated to Winnipeg. It was during their family and friends Christmas party, where his sister, Girlie, graciously invited us to join them. From the very first moment, Robert made us feel welcome. He had a way of making people feel at home, as if we had known each other for years. That was just the kind of person he was—genuine, kind-hearted, and always ready to embrace others with open arms.

Robert was a simple man, humble and down to earth. He carried himself with quiet strength and sincerity, never seeking the spotlight but always showing up with a big heart. His dedication and passion for his work were unmatched—he gave his all, not for recognition, but because that was simply who he was. He worked with integrity, always putting his best foot forward, and those who had the privilege of working alongside him will surely remember his commitment and unwavering dedication.

More than anything, Robert was a beloved son, brother, friend, and companion. His presence brought warmth and comfort to those around him, and his kindness will forever remain in our hearts.

Kuya Bert, we will miss you dearly. Your laughter, your generosity, and the love you shared with everyone will never be forgotten. Until we meet again.

To Ate Ghey and the entire family, we cannot begin to imagine the depth of your loss, but please know that you are in our hearts and prayers. In this time of grief, may you find comfort in the love that surrounds you, and may time and prayers bring you healing and peace.

Rest in peace, Kuya Robert. You will always be remembered.

Robert was the first friend my husband and I made when we arrived in Winnipeg. From the moment we immigrated in 2009, he, along with his sister, welcomed us into their lives and embraced us as part of their family. Every Sunday, they would pick us up to go to church, and we shared countless happy moments together—eating, hanging out, and celebrating special occasions and milestones.

We will always remember Robert’s bubbly personality, his kindness, and his generosity. He was the kind of person who always put others first, making sure everyone was okay. A man of strength and resilience, he was someone many looked up to. He was a devoted brother to his youngest sister, Girlie, and a very loving son.

Thank you, our dear friend, for everything. We will forever cherish you in our lives and in our hearts. Until we meet again, we'll miss you deeply and love you always.

To Ate Ghey, Kuya Neil, and the entire Aldor-Patawe family, please accept our sincerest condolences. May you find comfort and guidance during this challenging time. Know that we are always here for you.

Rest peacefully, Robert. May your soul be granted eternal peace.