Regino Quinones Pontanares

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Reno Pontanares, a cherished husband, father, uncle, grandfather, and friend. Reno departed this world on June 28, 2026, at the age of 79, surrounded by the love of his family at the Holy Cross subacute facility in Mission Hills, California. Born on February 24, 1947, in Nabua, Camarines Sur, Philippines, Reno's life was a rich tapestry of love, laughter, and dedication.

Reno was the beloved son of the late Lucio Sorita Pontanares and Santa Quinones Pontanares. He was predeceased by his parents and his son, Eric Pontanares, whose memories he cherished deeply. Reno leaves behind his devoted wife of 54 years, Marcelina (Celie), his loving son Neil Pontanares with his wife Melinda, and his adored daughter Rena Chen with her husband Brian. His legacy continues through his 13 grandchildren—Marc, Shine, Jeremiah, Praise, Heaven, and Isaac Pontanares, Elijah, Ariana, Marcelina (Marlie), and Xavier Chen, Kayla Newton and husband Tyler Newton, Christian, and Aaron Pontanares—and his three great-grandchildren, Havyn, Camyron, and Mila.

The Lucio Pontanares family arrived by ship in December 1953. It was a month-long journey from Manila to San Francisco via the Transport USS Ainsworth. The family eventually settled in San Diego and were among the pioneering Filipino families. Reno attended St Jude Academy and St Augustine High School in San Diego. He studied Judo and  played football in high school.

After graduating from St. Augustine High School, Reno proudly served his country in the US Navy Reserves for 6 years aboard the submarine USS Charr. His dedication to service was matched by his commitment to his career, where he worked as a credit manager for various companies in San Diego and Los Angeles before moving to Santa Clarita in 1992. Reno embraced retirement in 2016, allowing him more time to indulge in his passions for fishing, gardening, playing poker and cruising, which brought him immense joy and tranquility.

Reno was a man known for his quick wit and infectious smile, always ready with a joke to brighten any room. His ability to find joy in the everyday and spread laughter will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Reno is also survived by his siblings, who were a constant presence in his life: Benilda and her husband Serafin, sister Villa Mills, brother Lucio (Hap) Pontanares and his wife Eleanor, along with his cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles.

As we remember Reno, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of love, warmth, and humor. His spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those he touched.