A Eulogy for Papa Melo - my father in-law

A Eulogy I made for Papa Melo when he died las May 30, 2021....

A few days ago during a group chat with relatives- the grandchildren started to share their happy memories with Papa- All of them talked about Papa’s generosity as papa brings home chocolates, biscuits, books and toys when he goes out. Then when Toni Samson De Quintos, Ferdie Samson, Francis Gerard Samson and Mama Leonila Samson shared their best moments with Papa— their answer was simple— it was every time.

Papa Melo lived a full and meaningful life. He had his share of “fun times” when he was young as he would go to casinos or go out for a drink perhaps because of his stressful work at Customs. But Mama can proudly say that In spite of Papa’s love for casinos and alcohol before, he remained faithful to Mama. Even when he’s very drunk, he would call Mama to pick him up because he knows Mama Lily is her home. He would also buy the latest mobile phone and surprise his kids back then with new phones when they wake up. Gifts are really Papa’s love language.

I am blessed to have 2 loving fathers when Ge and I got married in 2008. Unfortunately in 2010, I lost my dad. I already experienced the excruciating pain of losing a loved one when that happened so I must say I have cherished all the moments I had with Papa Melo. It was my real dad who first taught me how to drive a car. But it was Papa Melo who was brave enough to ride with me on my first year of driving. I remember the first time he rode with me, he was quiet and was holding very tightly. From the moment he rode the car, he already started praying. But then he got used to my driving, and after a few rides he said... magaling ka na. He then became relaxed and I enjoyed our car rides together. Like my own dad, Papa was a man of few words... but when you ask him about his work, his life prior retirement, he would gladly tell stories and reminisce the good old times. The traffic in c5 became bearable because of Papa’s stories.

Papa was also a shy man. He doesn’t want parties and gatherings but you’ll be surprised, he’s friends with the guards, the baggers and all the staff in the mall.

Papa was also a very prayerful man. When he knows that we will go out to the mall, he will tag along with us. He would go to the mall but he would spend most of his time in the chapel. He carried with him his prayer book and he would recite his long prayers on a daily basis. Even during the pandemic, he doesn’t want to be late at the online mass. He used to attend the daily mass at 530 AM on TV, so he said he would wake up at around 3 AM so he can start with his daily prayers and finish it right before the mass starts.

I could go on and on and share all the best moments I had with Papa Melo, and I realize Mama, Ferdie, Gerard and Toni were right- what were my best moments with Papa? It is indeed every time when I was with him.

Losing my dad was very painful, and it’s difficult to feel the same pain again. But I will be forever grateful to have met and be loved by Papa.

Thank you Papa Melo. Thank you for loving me and for treating me like your own daughter. I love you and we will all miss you.