Paterno Cabigat Blaza, Sr.

With deep love and gratitude, we honor the life of Paterno Cabigat Blaza, affectionately known as "Ino" during his youth in the Philippines and lovingly called "Pater" by many throughout his life. He entered into rest on November 19, 2025, at the age of 77. Paterno was born on October 1, 1948, in Lipay, San Gabriel, La Union, Philippines, to Timoteo and Macaria Blaza. He was the second eldest of nine children. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Nena, for 57 years; a dedicated father to six children: Aurora, Analee (Donald), Arlene, Sheryl, Paterno "Ali", and Aelaine-five of whom survive him; and a proud grandfather to seven cherished grandchildren: Destiny, Asia, Deserie, Ariyah, Joshua, Ali, and Autumn. He is also survived by his three sisters, Luisa, Glory, and Leticia, and his brother, Raquel, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family who held him close to their hearts. He is preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Sheryl Blaza. Pater and Nena were married on May 10, 1968. Together, they owned and managed multiple small businesses, including tending to their family plantations, while he also served as the Postmaster for Villa Mercedes, San Quentin, Abra, in the Philippines. In 1985, Paterno and Nena immigrated to the United States, beginning a new chapter built on hard work, sacrifice, and hope for their family's future. Paterno lived a life shaped by determination, devotion, and quiet strength. In 1997, he began his trucking career with C.R. England in Utah, where he later became a truck driving instructor, training and guiding new drivers with steady hands and a lifetime of practical wisdom. He eventually established his own trucking company and later joined Keystone Freight Corporation, continuing behind the wheel until health issues brought him into retirement. Throughout his many years of travel, he journeyed across North America-the United States, Canada, and Mexico- taking pride in his work and the memories collected along every mile and stories that defined his life on the open road. Beyond his career, Paterno was a naturally gifted fisherman and craftsman-a skilled carpenter, electrician, farmer, gardener, outdoorsman, and all-around handyman. There was truly nothing he couldn't build, repair, or nurture. His intelligence, resourcefulness, and innate talent were evident in everything he touched. Paterno was also a wonderful storyteller, known for sharing memories, adventures, and life lessons with humor and warmth. He was a master-level chess player who almost never lost-and on the rare occasion he did, it was usually because he let you win, just to keep the game interesting. He also loved music, and whenever the moment struck, he never hesitated to belt out his favorite songs-sometimes on key, sometimes not, but always with heart. Above all, he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Paterno found great peace in fishing, especially along the California coastline where he spent countless summer days casting his line into the surf. The ocean, rivers, lakes, and along the California Aqueduct were his sanctuary, and every cast was a moment of calm, hope, and just a little friendly competition with the fish that got away. Pater faced his final years with the heart of a true champion. He fought courageously to stay alive, showing the same determination and strength that defined him throughout every chapter of his life. His resilience became a source of inspiration and admiration for all who loved him. His strength, his fight, and his unwavering spirit were a testament to the love he had for his family and the life he built. Above all, Paterno will be remembered for his generous heart, sharp mind, and unwavering love for his family. His legacy of strength, kindness, and devotion will continue to live on in all who were blessed to know him. May his memory be a blessing, and may his spirit rest in eternal peace. A visitation will be held 4-5:30pm Wednesday, December 3rd, 2025 at Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel, 127 E. Caldwell Ave., Visalia. A rosary will be held 5:30pm Wednesday, December 3rd, 2025 at Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel, 127 E. Caldwell Ave., Visalia. Mass of Christian Burial services will be held 10:00am Thursday, December 4th, 2025 at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 608 N. Church Street, Visalia. Graveside services will be held 11am Thursday, December 4th, 2025 at Visalia District Cemetery, 1300 W Goshen Ave, Visalia. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Paterno Cabigat Blaza, Sr.

October 1, 1948 - November 19, 2025