It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Cesario Orolfo Sarsozo Jr. on October 23, 2024, at the age of 79, after a long battle with kidney failure and several other prolonged medical difficulties.
Cesario was born on June 23, 1945, in Naga City, Philippines, to parents Cesario and Milagros. Being the oldest of nine children, he was a natural leader and always determined to help his family when they needed him. After graduating school in the Philippines, he joined the US Army. After serving for over 20 years, including a tour during the Vietnam War, he achieved the rank of staff sergeant before retiring.
While in the military, Cesario met and married the love of his life, Emiliana Maghacot Sarsozo. In the early days of their courtship, they would write letters to one another while he was recovering in Germany and she was working in Holland. They were married in early April of 1972, before having their first child, Emmilyn, in December of that year. They would go on to have two more children, Emmylou and Cesario III. During this time, the family was stationed in many places including Germany, Hawaii, and California; before putting down roots in Manhattan, Kansas. There, Cesario would form a community in the Catholic church at Fort Riley, the Knights of Columbus, and the Junction City Phil-Am Association.
Despite his later health struggles, Cesario was always determined to show up and be there for others, even if it meant putting himself at an inconvenience. He was respectful and kind, and had a good-natured sense of humor, reminding us all not to take life too seriously. Most notably of all his qualities, Cesario was a fighter. Every obstacle put in his way was eventually broken down by his tenacity and stubbornness, even until the very end.
Cesario was preceded in death by his wife, Emma; his two daughters, Emmilyn and Emmylou; and his brother, Florito.
He is survived by son Cesario Sarsozo III; grand-daughter Jocilyn Sarsozo; siblings Elena, Florinia, Eduardo, Marilyn, Fe, Jose, David; and several loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws.
In lieu of flowers, you may make a charitable donation to the Fort Riley chapter of the Knights of Columbus.