Patricio "Patt" Felipe Arabaca (1949–2025)

Patricio "Patt" Felipe Arabaca, 76, of Lake Forest, California, passed away on October 17, 2025, at Saddleback Memorial Medical Center. Born on July 15, 1949, in Leveriza, Pasay City, Philippines, he was the son of Francisco and Alejandra (Felipe) Arabaca.

After high school, Patt received a swimming scholarship to Lyceum University but chose a life of service, enlisting in the United States Navy in 1968. As the first-generation Arabaca to immigrate to the United States, he began his military career as a Steward's Mate (E-1) and rose through the ranks, retiring in 1988 as a Chief Boatswain's Mate (E-7). During his service, he sailed the world aboard the USS Mount Whitney, USS Independence, USS Suribachi, USS Cape Cod, and USS Denver.

Following 20 years of active duty, Patt continued his dedication to the Navy by joining the Military Sealift Command (MSC) as a Merchant Marine, serving over 25 additional years. Renowned as a subject matter expert in all aspects of deck operations, seamanship, and shipboard management, he sailed on the USNS Rainier, USNS Shasta, USNS Kiska, and USNS Alan Shepard, among others. He retired from MSC as a Ship Bosun, a title he carried with pride.

Patt is survived by his beloved wife, Corazon Munsalud Arabaca; his children, Mark (Bay) Arabaca, Patrick (Nerissa) Arabaca, and Cora Ann (Alex) Blanco; his grandchildren, Jeremiah Jett Arabaca, Ethan Kane Lim, Elisha Jane Arabaca, Jaelyn Pascual, Leilani Allure Arabaca, Jonathan Jordan Arabaca, Leslie Ann Arabaca, Kailea Jayel Arabaca, Asaya Kai Arabaca, Kamea Ann Blanco, and Kayana Ally Blanco; and his great-grandchildren, Avery Pascual and River Pascual. He is also survived by his siblings, Ismael "Mike" Arabaca, Teresa (Angelito) Francisco, Agnes Vu, Veronica (Bertram) Hermano, Amelia (Anthony) Cartwright, Olive (William) Endicott, Marites (Gary) Waldron, Francisco "Frank" Arabaca Jr., and Ella (Paul) Martin.

Memorial Services

• Viewing: Monday, November 3, 2025, from 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM at McCormick & Son Mortuary, 25002 Moulton Parkway, Laguna Hills, CA 92637
  
  
• Funeral Mass: Tuesday, November 4, 2025, from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM at St. Nicholas Catholic Church, 24252 El Toro Road, Laguna Woods, CA 92637
  
  
• Graveside Services: Thursday, November 6, 2025, from 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM at Miramar National Cemetery, 5795 Nobel Drive, San Diego, CA 92122
  
  
• Celebration of Life: Following graveside services (Time TBD) at Natsumi Buffet, 7040 Miramar Road, San Diego, CA 92121

Patt's legacy is one of unwavering dedication, service, and love for his family and country. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

To view webcasting of service, click HERE .