Kayla Mana O'lana Ongoy
My name is Kayla Mana O’Lana Garo Ongoy, granddaughter of Marcelina Baracao Garo and Ricardo Corpuz Garo Sr.
In February 2021, during one of my visits, Grandpa had gone to his room to get dressed before our morning of errands in Haleʻiwa Town.
I sat patiently in the living room, knowing better than to rush a man who took great pride in his appearance. Whether he was going to church or simply heading to the bank down the street, Grandpa always made sure he looked his best. He would carefully choose a nice outfit, fix his hair, and often top it all off with one of his favorite hats.
As I waited, I noticed his Bible resting on the dining table. It was the same black leather Bible I remembered from childhood, the one he would read softly to himself every night before bed. Curious, I opened it. Tucked carefully between its pages was an old photograph of him and Grandma.
Grandpa was a God-fearing man who did not merely speak about faith; he lived it every day. Seeing that photograph carefully placed inside the book he turned to daily reminded me of the two pillars that guided his life: faith and family. Without a single word spoken, it revealed the depth of his devotion to God, to Grandma, his beloved wife of seventy years, and to all of us.
Grandpa may have been small in stature but make no mistake: the moment he walked into a room, everyone felt his presence. He carried wisdom, quiet strength, and a warmth that made people feel safe. He never needed to raise his voice or command attention; his character did that for him. The way he lived, guided by humility, faith, and love, left a lasting imprint on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
That photograph tucked between the pages of his Bible is a memory I will carry with me forever. In its simplicity, it revealed everything about the man Grandpa truly was faithful, loving, steadfast, and strong in all the ways that mattered most. That is the legacy he leaves behind for our family.
Grandpa, it has been nearly seven months since you entered the gates of heaven. Not a day goes by that you do not cross my mind. Thank you for every lesson you taught me, every story you shared, every prayer you offered, and every moment of love you gave so freely. Until we meet again. Love always, Kayla.