Solomon Lagunzad Vivero

Solomon Lagunzad Vivero passed away peacefully on August 5, 2022, in his 84th year from heart ailment surrounded by his beloved wife and his loving children and grandchildren. He was an extraordinary gentleman whose kindness, generosity, wisdom, intelligence, and humour was truly an inspiration to us all. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 59 years, Conchita “Chit” Vivero. He was the cherished and loving father to Irene Toomey (Christopher); Raoul Vivero (Edna); Racquel Vivero-Chong (Phillip); Cynthia Basmadjian (Kamer); and Solomon Vivero Jr. He was the precious grandfather “Lolo” to Victoria and Patrick (Toomey), Eric and Abby (Vivero), Jordan and Lauren (Chong), and Markus and Lucas (Basmadjian). He was deeply devoted and much adored brother to his predeceased brothers Mariano, David (Rosie), and Antonio Jr. (Teresita), and survived by his remaining siblings Manuel (Nora), Rosemary (Ernesto), and Anastasia (Lina). He was a truly joyous and beloved “Uncle Sol” to his nephews and nieces; and a remarkable person to his extended relatives and many friends.

He was born in Dulag, Leyte (Philippines) on October 7, 1937 to the late Antonio and Leona Vivero. He was a man who lived a full and rewarding life. He was an ex-seminarian; was a former Manila Police Officer; and worked as a lawyer for the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) in the Philippines for many years. He completed his law degree at Manuel L. Quezon University (MLQU) / San Beda College while raising a growing family at the time. He raised 5 children with his beloved wife, Conchita, who is the love of his life. They were married shortly after 3 months of having met one another. Their marriage exemplified partnership, trust, devotion, and unconditional love. Their decision to come to Canada in 1987 was a testament of their mutual courage and trust in one another to make a better life for their children. Prior to his retirement, he worked for many years at the York Catholic District School Board; and at one point, even lived in Las Vegas, USA for a number of years until he returned back and settled permanently in Toronto, Canada. Solomon was a determined, hardworking, strong-willed, proud, and adventurous man. He was a man who thrived on challenges and fearless in the way he faced the world. He was truly an exemplary role model for all of us as we remembered his commitment to community service, civil duty, charity, and his zest for life. He was a man whose energy, generosity, and sense of humour were truly immeasurable. He loved to travel; never missed an opportunity to regularly check his social media for daily updates; he loved to sing Karaoke and his dance moves along with his grandchildren will remain truly memorable; and he can match wits with anyone willing enough to face the challenge. He was a deeply religious man whose faith remained strong as he was summoned by God to return home by his side along with his departed loved ones.

Solomon positively impacted so many lives with his tremendous spirit, vibrant personality, compassion, humour, and generosity. He will be forever missed.

Friends and family are welcome at the Chapel Ridge Funeral Home in Markham for visitation on Friday, August 12, 2022 between 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm, including prayers at 5:30 pm and between 7:30 to 8:30 pm.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 13, 2022 at 10:00 am.

Interment will be held at Christ the King Catholic Cemetery – 7770 Steeles Avenue East, Markham, Ontario, followed by a small reception.