Benjamin Misenas Guanga Jr.

Benjamin “Benjie” Guanga, Jr. passed away on September 3, 2026, just weeks before his 80th birthday. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Benjie will be remembered for his gentle spirit, remarkable patience, love of music, and generous heart.

Born on November 21, 1946 in the Philippines, Benjie discovered his love of music at a young age. As a teenager, he played in a successful band that traveled and performed in different places. Gifted with a natural ear, he beautifully played the piano and bass guitar despite never learning to read music. Music remained one of his greatest joys throughout his life.

After graduating from maritime school, Benjie became a merchant marine, traveling the world while working hard to provide for his family. He later immigrated to the United States, where his strong work ethic continued. Gifted with his hands, he could repair, build, and fix almost anything—and was always willing to use those talents to help others.

For 40 years, Benjie shared his life with his loving wife, Naty. He was a resilient provider, a steadfast and supportive partner, and above all, a deeply loving husband. He was a devoted father to Daniel, Marco, Allan, and Peter, and a loving grandfather. To his children, he was a gentle teacher, a source of laughter and comfort, and a compassionate and unconditionally loving father and grandfather.

To so many, Benjie was a thoughtful, easy-going, and tireless friend. Almost always smiling, he had a calm and comforting presence. Even through life’s difficulties, he rarely complained and continued to show kindness and generosity to those around him.

Through his example, Benjie taught his children to work hard, remain calm through difficult times, help others whenever possible, and above all, try to be a good person.

Benjie was a man of faith who trusted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. His family finds comfort in that faith as they mourn his passing and celebrate the life he lived.

His legacy lives on in the family he loved, the friendships he built, the people he helped, and the lessons he quietly passed on.

He traveled the world, worked hard, loved deeply, helped generously, and filled his life with music. And although his journey here has ended, he will be truly missed and the music he left behind will continue to play in all of us.