Fernando Tancioco

FERNANDO YAQUIN TANCIOCO, SR.

OBITUARY

April 28, 1942 – May 13, 2025

“Non sibi sed patriae” – Not for self, but for country.

Fernando was a devoted family man and a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy, where he served with distinction for 25 years, including a tour during the Vietnam War. His commitment to service extended far beyond his military career, touching the lives of all who knew him with his humility, generosity, and laughter.

The third of his parents’ children, Fernando was born on April 28, 1942, in Ballesteros, Santa Cruz, Cagayan, Philippines, to Tomas and Avelina Tancioco.

At the age of 20, Fernando passed both the written and physical exams to enter the United States Navy in the Philippines. He began training at the Recruit Training Center in San Diego, California. His first assignment was with Patrol Squadron Six, nicknamed the Blue Sharks, based out of Naval Air Station Barbers Point located in Hawaii.

During the early years of his naval service, the United States was already involved in the Vietnam War. Fernando was deployed on the USS Clarion River based out of Yokosuka, Japan, where the crew was tasked with patrolling the coasts and rivers of Vietnam—a responsibility he carried out with courage and honor.

In 1968, Fernando returned to the Philippines to marry the love of his life on October 12th. Over the years, they were stationed throughout the United States and the Philippines. Eventually, Fernando and his wife decided to put down roots in Sacramento, establishing it as the family’s home base while Fernando continued his naval service.

Initially working as a steward, Fernando worked his way through the ranks and ultimately retired on June 30, 1986, as a Chief Petty Officer, after serving as an electronics technician—an achievement that reflected his quiet discipline and determination.

Though he retired from active duty, Fernando continued to work for the government as a civilian. He held positions with the United States Postal Service, Sacramento Army Depot, where he also discovered his love for playing ping pong, and finally McClellan Air Force Base.

Retirement brought on new adventures for Fernando. He was a proud member of the Filipino American Veterans Association, FAVA, here in Sacramento where he served as President. Not only did he participate with FAVA, but he also was part of the American Legion (Post 604), a Veterans Service organization. He also participated in an investment group, MasaganaInvestment Group. He loved golfing, playing poker, and ballroom dancing with their friends.

He is survived by his wife, Edna, children: Elaine and her husband Chris Rokosz, and Fernando, Jr. and his wife, Ann, his grandchildren: Amanda and Ashley Rokosz, and Jerico and Jaxson Tancioco. He is also survived by his siblings: Solidad and Tomas Jr. of the Philippines, and Aida and Elena of San Ramon, as well as nieces and nephews and great nieces and great nephews.

Fernando Sr., fondly known as Andy or Nanding, will be remembered for his love of country and especially the love he shared with all his family and friends.