Aristoteles “Ely” Dumon Afan

Aristoteles “Ely” Dumon Afan  
August 19, 1945 – June 29, 2026
Aristoteles “Ely” Afan, beloved son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and proud United
States Navy veteran, entered into eternal rest on June 29, 2026. He passed peacefully, surrounded
by his loving family, as he was gently placed into the hands of Almighty God.
Born August 19, 1945, in the Philippines, Ely was the eldest of eight children born to Angel
Afan, Sr. and Romualda Dumon Afan. His father served as a teacher in Kiangan, Ifugao, and Ely
grew up living a simple life rooted in faith and responsibility. As the eldest, he helped raise his
younger brothers and sisters, sold newspapers, and shined shoes to help provide for his family’s
daily needs. He pursued higher education at St. Mary’s College, now St. Mary’s University.
Before graduation, he received an invitation from the United States Navy to take the entrance
examination. With a heart to support his family, he answered the call, left his home and studies,
and began a distinguished career in service to his adopted country.
At a time when opportunities for Filipinos in the Navy were limited, Ely began as a Ship’s
Steward, later known as Mess Specialist and now Culinary Specialist. Through dedication and
excellence, he rose to serve aboard a nuclear submarine as a Ship’s Storekeeper. His assignments
carried him to vessels across the globe in faithful service to the United States. Ely never forgot
the family he left behind. Each payday, he kept only a few dollars for himself and sent the rest
home to the Philippines, ensuring his parents, brothers, and sisters were cared for.
In January 1970, Ely returned to the Philippines for the first time since his enlistment and
married the love of his life, Maria Balbina “Pette” Tesoro. Together they were blessed with five
loving children: Yvonne, Michelle, Abigayle, AJ and Ace. Ely and Pette were further blessed
with eight grandchildren, whom they cherished deeply.
Ely found great joy in caring for his family not only through his service and sacrifice, but also in
the quiet moments at home. He loved cooking for his family and nurturing life through planting
fruits and vegetables, a passion that reflected his patience and generosity. In his final days, his
wish was simple and heartfelt: to remain at home, watching over the plants he lovingly tended.
He was a devoted son to Angel and Andang, a protective eldest brother to his siblings, a loyal
and loving husband to Pette, a guiding father to his children, and a proud grandfather. Known to
many as “Ely” or “Rusty,” he held close his cousins, relatives, and extended family, always
reminding them that family was his greatest treasure. His life was defined by humility,
generosity, sacrifice, and unconditional love for both country and family.
Family and friends are invited to honor his life. Visitation will be held July 20 and 21, 2026 from
4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at California Burial & Cremation, 5880 El Cajon Blvd., San Diego. A
Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 4540 El Cerrito Dr., El
Cajon, CA, on July 22, 2026, at 10:00 AM. Before the committal service at Holy Cross

Cemetery on July 22, 2026, at 11:30 AM, military honors will be rendered to recognize his 22
years of dedicated and faithful service in the United States Navy and to America.
Eternal rest grant unto the soul of Aristoteles Afan, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon
him. May he rest in peace.
He served his country with honor. He loved his family without limit. His legacy of faith, duty,
and love will guide us always.

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