"On behalf of Mario Locsin, we would like to extend to all of you, his friends, colleagues, our gratitude for the overwhelming show of love and support for our loss. This propels us to build this bridge: a website to honor our brother's life. We find comfort in the heartwarming missives posted on Facebook, on this site, and the many emails you have sent to various members of our family. We find strength in the knowledge that Mario was so blessed to have been liked, admired, and loved by all of you. "
Diding, Manang Gela, Angelo
Please keep posting and sending us photos of Mario. We love looking at the photos and we love reading your messages. Please keep coming back to this site as we continue to update it.
Diding and Manang Gels
Even at the end of your time on EARTH, you unwittingly introduced me to 2 special friends who mean the world to me. For this, I will not forget your words of encouragement and peace. May you BASK in the ETERNAL SUNSHINE of our Father's HEAVEN. I will pray for this today. -Larry Leviste
DEAR MARIO, WHAT I WILL MOST REMEMBER ABOUT YOU IS YOUR GENTLENESS. IT SHOWN THROUGH YOUR CUENTOS AND MOST SPECIALLY THE ONES ABOUT DIDING! I KNOW SHE HELD A SPECIAL PLACE IN YOUR HEART AND SO CONTINUE TO LOOK AFTER HER FROM WHERE YOU ARE NOW. I ALSO REMEMBER YOUR TELLING ME OF YOUR SON, SAYANG I NEVER MET HIM, BUT LATER, WHEN I GO TO SEE YOUR CREMAINS, I WILL WRITE SOMETHING IN THE BOOK FOR HIM TO READ. YOU LEFT US ALL THE WAY YOU WANTED, NO FUSS, NO BOTHER. WE WILL MISS YOU FOR A LONG, LONG TIME. LOVE YOU FOREVER! -Marissa Araneta
Mario, though we had just met briefly, you were delightful to work with at the grand Karilagan reunion and to party with. May you rest in eternal peace. -Yolanda Zaragoza
Borge, I know you are in a better place, you never shared with us your problems but only your wit and laughter. We will all miss you and even though we had only met recently, I knew your brother Diego and sister Diding long ago and as you are great persons. We shared many crazy moments chatting away and discussing things....we had common good friends like Maritess, MaryAnne,Marimi, Yvonne, Carlitos,etc.,etc....we will all miss you but we know you are at peace now and in a much better place. God Bless and watch over us. Poke us once in a while with your wit and quotes. Palangga ka gid namon tanang Borge! Namaste. - Atomic Lopez
My deepest condolence to the family of Mario Locsin. Specially to his son who Mario was so proud of. He sent me so many pictures of his son...he was the proud father indeed. I have known Mario since the 70s and have happy memories of him in New York and here in Manila.It is really sad to think that I will not see him anymore. I will miss his smile and that twinkle in his eyes. So to you Mario, I wish you love and peace on your new journey and peace and comfort to all who loved you! - Edwina Litton
Wish I had met Mario...but feels like I've known him since Mimi's senior prom :-). It's true: that it's really not how long you've known a person that matters...but it's the good and fun times, even tho only thru FB...that matters the most. I'm glad I did him a small favor by finding Jose Mari Lacson, through my sister Loli, whom he hasn't seen in ages. Love you Mario! pls kiss and hug my daddy and mommy, and LA(bro-in-law)for me when you see them in paradise. -Ma. Helena Imperial Cojuangco
Mario, I won't see that million dollar smile anymore, nor read your hilariously funny quips, nor will you be teaching me the proper ilonggo-speak, nor will you be jumping in and out of our FB lives and our threads, but one thing I know for certain.. earth time is but a blip in this big radar screen called eternity. From our perspective, we suffer the permanent loss of your presence. But from your perspective, with Jesus by your side, you know that time is just a small blip in the radar screen, and in a blink of an eye, we too will pass and see you someday. Send me a signal, ok? It was a pleasure and a priviledge to have met you, to be part of the Pedos Locos (your Fartnuts). X0X0X0 Mario, palangga tigid ikaw. See, you can't teach me anymore... ay ambot, my ilonggo will go down the drain.... - Tina Pimentel
Will pray for Diding's brother Mario. He'll be spending his first Christmas with Jesus, face-to-face. Isn't that exciting? - Enid Sevilla
Diding, my heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Mario must have been very close to you. Just remember he is in a better place now, and happy. He will be in my prayers. -S. Katigbak
Cheer up Diding. He touched many lives. He was a gentle giant. -Larry Lacson
Dear Diding, Mario is in a better place now, far away from this vale of tears. He is now one of your angels and will be by you all the time. a big hug to you friend. - Marissa Araneta
I will miss you so much, Tito Mario. I love you. - Lia Weekes
Ding, really so sorry to hear bout Mario's passing. i will really never understand why....but now he must be in a better place free of pain and suffering. My sympathies to you and your family. Toto is devastated. -Inday Sicangco Arellano
My condolences, Diding. I met Mario a year ago thru Maryanne Gomez and we have been out a few times. I gave him a project in March but suddenly a few months ago he quit w/out warning or reason.
Now we know... So sad. -Gayle S. Yabut
I am so very sorry for your loss Maria. You always spoke so lovingly about him.
Only time will heal your heart.-Val Parylak
I remember him coming out of the kitchen door in Manila saying he would make this new dressing with mustard. We were so young then. Who knewl the gadzillion dressings we would come to know in our futures. He was happy then. Cloud 9 and so it was. Our posts say that we loved him very much and have some wonderful memories .. keep them in mind for he is not gone as long as he is in our heart... Love you Ching -Chita Reyes
D, I have a photo of him and me in my phone and he has the same smile. It was taken the night we had dinner in Manila, before you left. Keep safe Ding, he is. Elena
My deepest sympathy to you and to your entire family. I will continue to pray foryour brother. With love and prayers. Ditas Valdes Pascucci
Dear Diding, I am truly saddened by the passing of Mario and I know how there are not enough words to help soothe your feelings of grief. My sincerest condolences and deepest sympathy are with you at this time. May his soul rest in peace as I am sure he is in a much better place than where we are.Love, Susan
Mario was a delightful charming visitor to our home several Thanksgivings ago. His presence radiated our home. Afterwards we felt we had been touched by someone quite special. His gifts were many not just through his undeniable talents but the gifts from within. We will pray for family at their grievous lost. The world has lost someone quite special. Our Lord thought he gave enough and wanted to protect him in his house. No doubt he is in a special place. - kkjam
Diding, I am so sorry for your loss of a very dearly beloved. I never met him, but your loving references to your brother, kwentos of admiration for him, and amusing anecdotes of your lives together always brought warmth to my heart. May you take comfort in the many loving memories he has shared with those he knew and loved. My prayers for and with you and your family. Teri Valdes
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Thanks for the photos Manang Gela (your new title).....I sent flowers too through my sister Inday.....I heard that Cocoy and family sang during the mass....and so did Leo Valdez....we are facebook friends and It wasn't hard to convince him to sing as well...he sang the Lord's Prayer graciously accompanied by Cocoy and then "Bring Him Home" from Les Miz after the mass....I hear that Sario is holding on to the ashes... I will call Angelo when I get back to New York and I want to spend some time with him.. Happy Holidays, Toto
My name is (Lia)Lydia Maria Stables-y-Locsin. Tito Mario was my mother's brother. He was such a special presence in my life and I feel so grateful to have known him and spent time with him. Tito Mario left everything more beautiful than it was before him. He took note of the small and quiet details in life that most of us usually miss because we are so busy and he drew attention to these fine qualities and he celebrated them. He always smiled and laughed and my heart did the same when we were together. He was like a second father to me. He never broke a promise. He always said "I love you." I will always miss him. I am not surprised that God called my Tito Mario to be close to him, for I know just how special he was, and that rather than being taken too soon, I am grateful eternally, that for a brief while, we had one of His angels on earth among us all. Good Night, Tito Mario. I love you. Always. - Lia Locsin-Stables
The news of Mario’s passing on leaves me stunned and with a heavy heart. Mario was such a gentle soul and a joy to be with, with very interesting stories and perspectives (with the added dimension of his artist’s eye). I remember him as one who was present at many Locsin nieces’ weddings—as well as at my wedding in 1999—to add conversation and laughter to the merriment of the occasions. I will truly miss him….it is hard for me to talk of him in the past tense. On behalf of Larry and I, please be assured that today’s Mass will be for Mario’s peaceful rest in the bosom of Our Lord.We will also continue to remember him in prayers in the days ahead. Although it is difficult to find the appropriate words to offer you comfort and solace at the loss of your brother, may the Lord bless you with peace of heart in the knowledge that Mario suffers no more and is in his rightful place in His Home. With heartfelt condolences, -Prima Pilar
My dear cousins, It is with a heavy heart that a write this message.Surprised, shocked is a better word of how I felt when I learned about Mario's death. I feel really bad that I did not connect with you cousins sooner. I have been deliquently remiss with opening my email since the x'mas break began. Mario visited Bacolod sometime last year or a little over a year ago to discuss a possible project in La Salle. He and I just tried to recall the fond memories of Tita Lydia, your mom, and Yoya Dang. He was asking a lot of questions regarding Yoyo Dado.I just felt so proud that he was my cousin and knew how sincere he was relating to me as his prima. I will keep him in my prayers and know that once upon a time I had a cousin, THE DESIGNER, named Mario Montenegro Locsin. We may not have seen each other frequently but it was such a great joy and pride to tell other acquaintances that he was my cousin. (of course, this came as a surprise to many) I end by bidding Mario goodbye and thank him for also loving his Tita Bibing and me Pilar.
Tito Mario, I have many fond childhood memories of you. We may not have stayed in touch much lately, but I hope you know you'll always have a special place in my heart. Your loving nephew, Stevie
Dear Manang Gela,
Take comfort in knowing that your brother Mario whom you loved dearly is never really gone. For as long as you keep him in your heart and in your thoughts, he will be with you always. Love, which is timeless never ceases to exist. Our deepest sympathy. Love,
Lito,Lilybelle,Carlo, Syrel, Julfred, Nikki, Ging and Danica
Dear Tita Gela, We were so sad to hear of Tito Mario's passing. We always enjoyed seeing him. He was truly as you describe him, a gentle soul. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Much love to you. Love, Len, Andy, Joey & Louie Pascarella
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Its been years since the last time we have seen each other until last April in FB. Laughter was our "thing" and boy, did we laugh. Then, we had planned to revive these good times but... However, I could still see and hear that...will always do and this makes me smile. -Lillian Rissi
Dear Angela and Family, What a beautiful memorial this website is! Mario was truly and talented artist and seemed to have such an amazing spirituality. You were all blest to have had him in your lives. Our sincere condolences at this difficult time. -Sharon and Gene O'Brien
Dear Gela, We are so sorry to hear the sad news about the recent passing of your brother Mario.We want you to know that your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Lovingly, Mike and Maricel Delaney and the Legasto family (Tito, Marilen, Marite and Malou).
Dear Gela, Toniet and I were very sorry to learn of Mario's death. While we only met him once, he made a very strong impression on us as a very talented, smart, funny individual who took a genuine interest in everything and everybody around him. He seemed larger than life and someone who loved life. I know he was a wonderful brother and you will miss him. Joshua also joins us in sending our deepest sympathy on your loss. You have our love and prayers. Toniet and Jim
I remember our wonderful evening with Mario like it was yesterday. I truly enjoyed his company, indeed a gentle soul. I am grateful to have had the chance to know him, even if only for a short time. -Mitz Panlileo Borromeo
Dear Gela, Your brother was indeed a wonderful person and a man of great accomplishments, ( I can see by the lovely remembrance you sent to me). But none could compare with your love for him, and obviously the others in your family. He was indeed a lucky guy to have had such love on this journey of life. You know Gela, I have always believed that everything does happen for specific necessary reasons. Mario has spent time on this Earth doing great things and loving his family. Is there a better way to spend time here?!! Mario must be needed elsewhere, and he obviously has other missions that require his love and experiences, and I am certain that is why he is ‘Gone too Soon”. That was a beautiful poem, it touched my heart. I am sure he is looking down at you now with a smile on his face saying, “ Gela-I am ok, I am happy, everything is fine with me! Have fun in your life. I love you.” That is his wish for you. Love from my heart, - Gayle
I met Mario several years ago when his sister GEla and her husband bought a house here in Sarasota. I immediately felt a bond with Mario because I was working on a Masters in Pastoral Ministry through our Diocese here in Sarasota, Florida. He shared a web site where I could see some of his work. I have known a number of architects and design professionals over the years but really enjoyed talking to him and felt his passion for his work in our churches. I am so sorry to hear of his death. Lee Byron
I can still see the lovely dress he designed for his sister Gela's wedding to my brother Valentin Dolorico. Mario is gone too soon but he left the world a more beautiful place. -Amelita Dolorico
Larry and I met Mario at Gela and Val's home here in Sarasota 2 years ago. He was so charming ! In fact we became facebook friends and kept in touch. I am so sad at the news of his passing !!!! I can't believe it ! But I suppose now he is making friends in heaven and charming them as he charmed me. - Gigi and Larry Freeman
Angela,Thank you for sending the updated link. It is so amazing to read all the wonderful messages that so many people have written. I felt that I had met him and now I know that I did at Max's party. What a beautiful smile and what a beautiful person. I hope that you are feeling better. All the positive comments from your family and friends have to be some comfort. No one ever wants to lose a family member, especially one who is younger. God be with you in this journey.-Sharon
Dear dear gela, Please accept my heartfelt condolences. Mario was a wonderful man I do remember meeting him and even commented to you "Oy Gel, pagka guapo ka-ayo". I will remember him in my prayers. Warmest regards - Nora
Dear Gela, I just sent my message. I didn't copy it before I submitted, thinking I would
still see it. It went something like this:
"Mario, I first met you in 1987 in New York City briefly. I met you again when
Gela was on a television program in Quezon City. We had a lot of time to
ourselves and we didn't run out of things to talk about. No wonder you have so
many devoted friends. Almost a year ago you joined us for lunch at home with
Gela, Val, and my cousins. You conquered us with your charm, gentle manner and
enthusiasm. You even danced with my six year old granchild Amelie and Gela when
they did. My cousin Inday Parina marveled at how such a big man could be so
graceful and dance so well. You were charming and sweet. Such a rare
combination in one with so much talent, looks, and who towered over all of us in
height. Looking at our pictures, we were like pygmies! Josie and Rose were
overwhelmed when you sought them in the kitchen to thank them for the cooking
you liked so much. Thank you for spending time with us. I was especially
looking forward to seeing you again with Gela and Val this February 2011.
Sadly, it wasn't meant to be. We mourn our loss."
Just now realized I didn't put my name at the end. Guess I didn't know any
better.
Marna
Dear Angela, How very sad to lose your brother and especially at the holidays. May God bless you in this difficult time. You know you have friends who love you and are sad because you are grieving. May the new year be one of health and personal peace for you. OOO, Zoe
To the family of Mario, Although I just met Mario again at Gela and Val Dolorico's home in Sarasota, Florida last January, 2010, I still remember him as a very warm and friendly person. I was so shocked to hear the sad news. Our deepest condolences and sympathies on his loss. With prayers, Corita and Abdul Gaffar
Dear Diding, Gela & family, I will surely miss Mario, a very charming and delightful person. His passing greatly saddened me.I I am thankful I got the chance to see him in January 2010 when he came to NYC (I did not expect it to be the last) but he made sure to drop by my apartment. We had a great time looking at my 2007 wedding photo albums and old photos in Bacolod way back when. Mario was such a joker, he loved to tease me. Mario is in the best place now and in peace. Lucy & Steven Chin
Gela, Thank you so much for sending me the link for your brother, Mario. Too bad I did not get to meet him. I am very much involved in church environment in our church. I have been to the House of Prayer in Orange that he designed and it is so beautiful and awe inspiring. You really feel like praying and meditating when you' re in there. I feel blessed for seeing at least one of his works. God bless. Jo Velasco
