Friends and family knew him as “Benny” while the grandchildren called him “Angkong”, which translates in Chinese as Grandpa.
Benny was born on October 2, 1946, in Manila Philippines. He passed peacefully at age 68 on February 14th, 2015 in Seattle, WA with his family by his side providing love and comfort in the final hours of his life.
Benny was preceded in death by his loving parents Felicidad Uy and Alfonso Sy Ge, his two other sons: Baldwin and Roderick who were both taken at a very young age and his older brothers: Francis, Renato and Felix.
He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Velinda Sy, his daughters: Rhodora (Melville) Descargar and Rachel (Ayllon) Romano, together with grandchildren: Abigail and Arielle Descargar; Alayna and Adrian Romano. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He was a good friend who was always ready to lend a helping hand when needed.
Benny graduated with a Magna Cum Laude from Far Eastern University in Manila, Philippines, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics and Management.
After graduating, he worked at China Bank where he applied the fundamentals of the import/export business. Later, he established his own stevedoring company where he managed about 3,000 employees. It was rather unfortunate that at the peak of his success, Martial Law was enacted and his business was seized from him.
He had many passions. Among them are his vegetable garden, fruit trees, koi and goldfish breeding, hunting, and his precious mini vineyard. He was always excited to share his fruit of labor with family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers. He was also very fond of dancing, karaoke, drawing, and woodworking.
He was a very meticulous, organized and detail oriented person. Perhaps, this was the reason why he was awarded in 2008 as Employee of the Year by Harborview Medical Center – UW Medicine. This was a proud moment for him. He was overwhelmed with the idea of many co-workers who valued his services to nominate him for this prestigious award. He always boasted this award with his family. He was always reminding us that regardless of your title or position, you always strive to do your absolute best.
He will also be deeply missed by his sisters: Cora, Dolores, and Nene, and countless members of extended family.
Memorial Service was held on Monday, February 23, 2015 at Saint Paul’s Church (10001 57th Avenue S, Seattle, WA 98178) before his cremation.
