Ruperto M. Dizon

Ruperto “Tong” Manlapaz Dizon passed away peacefully on May 28, 2025, surrounded by his loving family in Poinciana, Florida. Born on March 27, 1940, to Eulogio and Maura Dizon, in rural Magalang, Pampanga, in the Philippines, Tong lived his life as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, mentor, and friend. After graduating at the top of both his high school and undergraduate classes, he embarked on an illustrious career in public service that spanned over three decades across the globe. From Manila to Buenos Aires, where he served as Philippine Chargé d’Affaires, to New York, where he represented the Philippines as Consul, and finally to Amman, where he served as the Philippine Ambassador to Jordan until his retirement, his effective leadership and loyal friendship impacted thousands of lives. Yet, behind Tong’s lofty title of “Ambassador Extraordinaire and Plenipotentiary” was an unpretentious man who was always true to his humble roots and his priorities at home. He was known for his commitment to his family, deep pride in his heritage, a strong work ethic, and his unique brand of humor, complete with his infectious laughter. He worked diligently his entire life to support first his parents and siblings, and then his wife and four children. At the same time, he knew how to appreciate the simple pleasures of daily living, enjoying his retirement in Florida, keeping his garden beautiful, cooking for his wife, and broadcasting his family’s accomplishments and corny jokes in equal proportion. Tong is survived by his wife, Linda; his four children, Joel and wife Pauline, Julius and wife Cordula, Gizelle and husband Dmitry, and Jinky and husband Chilin; his eight grandchildren, Grace, James, Sophia, Alana, Arielle, Kai, Kara, and Kenneth; his siblings Lads, Pepe, Buds, and Baby; and his many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Eulogio and Maura, and his siblings Beth and Felix. A celebration of life will be held on Monday, June 2, 2025, at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, 1603 N Thacker Ave, Kissimmee, FL. The viewing will begin at 3:00 PM, followed by a Funeral Mass at 4:00 PM, with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Lake Wales, FL in memory of Ruperto Dizon.

Ruperto M. Dizon

March 27, 1940 - May 28, 2025