Obituary of Gabriele Suelto

February 7, 2026

Gabriele “Bing” Suelto, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and man of faith, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2026, at the age of 88. He was born on March 18, 1937, in Bios, Amlan, Negros Oriental, Philippines, the youngest of three children. He was raised with strong Christian values that shaped a life defined by humility, perseverance, and devotion to God and family.

He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Foundation College in Dumaguete City, Philippines, in April 1967.

In June 1967, he was set up on a date with his future wife, Ester T. Taclob of Lopez Jaena, Misamis Occidental, a nursing student at Silliman University College of Nursing in Dumaguete City, Philippines. A special date night at the Silliman Annual Nursing Ball marked the beginning of their love journey.

On May 11, 1969, he married his beloved wife, Ester, beginning a life together grounded in love, faith, and devotion. In pursuit of greater opportunities for their family, they moved from the Philippines to New York City. In June 1972, they settled into a Manhattan apartment building that would remain his home for more than five decades—a home filled with cherished memories, shared meals, celebrations, and everyday moments that told the story of a life well lived.

While Bing was a teacher by profession in the Philippines, dedicated to educating and guiding young minds, his working life in New York City took a different path. He held several jobs, including a sales clerk at B. Altman’s Department Store, a printer at the Lyman T. Corbin Factory, and a clerk at Mutual Buying Syndicate, all located in Manhattan. He eventually built a career as a taxi and limousine driver, navigating the city’s streets with patience, pride, and determination. Through long hours and hard work, he provided for his family and made countless quiet sacrifices.

Together, Bing and Ester raised three children: his eldest son, Darren; his middle son, Bryan; and his youngest daughter, Kimberly. He was a friendly, easygoing presence in their lives, known for his great sense of humor, steady calmness, and ability to face life without stress, leading by example through kindness, consistency, and unwavering faith.

He was very active in community organizations, including the Silliman University Alumni Association and church organizations. He also loved listening to music and enjoyed fixing and working cars himself.

Bing was deeply proud of his Filipino heritage and never lost his connection to his roots. He delighted in sharing Filipino culture with family and friends, especially its delicious food. He was especially known for his beloved homemade “Humba”, a dish that brought everyone together and will forever be remembered as a symbol of his love and generosity. He also followed with great pride the achievements of fellow Filipinos, including world-famous champion boxer Manny Pacquiao.

A strong believer in God, Bing lived his life with gratitude and trust, finding strength in prayer and comfort in his faith. He was known for his warm spirit and gentle demeanor, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him.

He was a proud grandfather to Isadora “Izzy”, Jaiden, and Kaitlyn, each of whom brought him immense joy and pride.

Bing is survived by his beloved wife, Ester; his children and their spouses, Darren and Maila, Bryan and Linda, and Kimberly and Jason; his grandchildren, Izzy, Jaiden, and Kaitlyn; as well as extended family and friends who will forever remember him with love, respect, and gratitude. His legacy lives on through the family he nurtured, the faith he lived by, and the culture, traditions, and memories he proudly passed on.

 

Viewing Services

Thursday, February 12, and Friday, February 13

4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Greenwich Village Funeral Home

 

Funeral Service

Saturday, February 14

11:00 a.m.

Church of the Good Shepherd

 

Burial

Immediately following the funeral service

Pinelawn Memorial Park

2030 Wellwood Avenue

Farmingdale, NY 11735

Tel: 631-249-6100

 

Funeral Services