Lucio Cabitage's Obituary
Lucio Cabotage, known lovingly as Papa to his family and remembered affectionately by many as Manong Lucio or simply as Tata, was born on September 10, 1937 in Narvacan, Ilocos Sur, Philippines. He lived a life defined by humility, hard work, and a generosity so steady it became his family’s standard for what love looks like.
Lucio was the eldest of 11 children, a role he carried with deep responsibility. From an early age, he made decisions not only for himself but for those who would come after him. Even while after being accepted into the University of the Philippines’ prestigious programs, he chose a more practical, less expensive collegiate path so that his younger siblings could also pursue higher education, eventually shouldering the burden himself. These early sacrifices became his signature and reflected what he believed most: that discipline, learning, and character are meant to serve others.
Wherever Lucio lived, from the provinces of the Philippines, to Manila, and eventually to Maui, his home became a place people gravitated toward, with visitors coming and going, stories being exchanged, and always, food. Food was one of Lucio’s greatest love languages. He was known for exceptional cooking, especially favorites like papaitan/pinapaitan and dinakdakan, and for the way his meals brought people together. He did not simply host people; he cared for them, fed them, and made them feel like they belonged.
In Hawaiʻi, Lucio built a business centered on service, helping Filipino families stay connected to home through balikbayan boxes and money remittances. Through this work, he became a trusted bridge between Maui and the Philippines, making it easier for families to support their loved ones, celebrate milestones from afar, and maintain closeness across oceans. More than a business, it reflected who he was: dependable, hardworking, and deeply committed to community, someone people could count on with what mattered most.
Above all, Lucio shared a remarkable life with his beloved wife, Oliva Cabotage, (“Mama”). For 63 years, their marriage was marked by steady devotion, mutual respect, and the quiet strength of two people choosing each other day after day. Together they built a home grounded in faith, hard work, and family, facing life’s seasons as true partners and creating a legacy of love that continues to shape their children and grandchildren. Their bond was not only enduring, but deeply lived, a lifelong companionship that modeled commitment, tenderness, and the meaning of building a life side by side.
Lucio Cabotage is survived by his wife, Oliva Cabotage; his children Rouel Cabotage, Rouena Abuel, Dr. Richard Cabotage, Ronald Cabotage, and Rocky Cabotage; his 16 grandchildren and one great-grandchild; and many relatives and friends who were shaped by his kindness, guidance, and steady presence.
A Memorial Mass will be held at Christ the King Church (20 W Wakea Ave, Kahului, HI 96732) at 4:00 PM on Wednesday, December 17.
Please join us to celebrate his memory, and honor his legacy by living as he did: steady in love, generous in action, and grounded in family.
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