Tio Mario is my Papang’s (Sammy Sulit Tolosa) first cousin. I first met Tio Mario when my Mamang (Josefa Tolosa) took me to see Lolo Islao, the late father of Tio Mario, who lived in Manila. Since then, while attending Cruzada church , I always saw Tio Mario because he was an elder of the church and, of course, when we visited him and Tia Ganding at their house in Roxas District, Quezon City.
In 1973, before I got married, I asked my Mamang, “Who’s going to walk me down the aisle?” Mamang suggested Tio Mario as he was the closest male relative of my deceased father. When my children were attending the Sunday School in Cruzada, their fond memories of their Lolo Mario included receiving treats from him like candy and gum.
When I found out that Tio Mario and Tia Ganding moved to the States, I tried to give them a call every time I was here visiting from the Philippines to reconnect and tell stories about my children. Tio Mario was always glad to hear stories from relatives about what is happening in their lives and also never forgot to send me a Christmas card, whether I was in the Philippines or in the States.
I know he is already with the Lord and Tia Ganding. In God’s time, I will see him again with our Creator. I love you and will miss you, Tio Mario.
–Virgie Tolosa Medina