Alvin Joseph Lumalang, was first and foremost a Father, a Son, a Fiance, a Brother, a Nephew, a Cousin, and a Dear Friend.
Alvin, lovingly known as “Joseph”, “JoJo” lived life to the fullest, the best way he knew how. He was very proud of his son, Alben, who recently graduated from the US Navy Bootcamp.
Joseph grew up in Los Angeles, CA in his early years. Moved to Palmdale, CA where he lived on and off for 20+ years. Joseph graduated from Highland High School (Class of 1995), he lived in Virginia Beach, VA and met his now-former wife, Marleen Marcelo. Their union created the best gift of all...Alben Joshua, a.k.a. "AJ." AJ is the namesake of his father and brother who brought so much joy into their lives. Joseph loved Alben with all of his heart.
In 2009, Joseph graduated from Charter College as a Pharmacy Technician. Unfortunately, his Dad passed away that year and was unable to be there physically, although he was there spiritually, for Joseph's graduation. Dad instilled in Joseph that no one could ever take away your education. Joseph worked diligently to accomplish his degree. The heartbreaking loss of his Dad never healed.
Joseph cared for his Mother, Louella Palalay Lumalang. The two of them are very stubborn and hardheaded. However, they always managed to love each other unconditionally. Mom has spent countless days and nights praying never-ending Hail Mary's worrying about Joseph. Joseph's carefree spirit is a result of all the worry being sent his way. He knew that his Mom always had his back. Mom has always been Joseph's safety net. She has sacrificed so much time, love, and prayers for all her children to be successful in this life. Mom, you are our rock, and we know Joseph loved you.
Joseph enjoyed working on cars, riding motorcycles, spending quality time with his family, and loved to cook Filipino food. In the last year of his life, he reunited with his now-fiancée, Veneviv Mena, whom we call V. They met in the mid-’90s and lost touch. V and Joseph were looking forward to spending the rest of their lives together. V cared for Joseph till the very end. Even while Joseph was fighting for his life, he managed to let all of us know that he loved us. V said he was thankful to the doctors and nurses who cared for him. When he was conscious, he would say “Thank you”. Our family is eternally grateful for the love she gave him. The two of them cared for their furry son, Adobo, who is lost without his Dad.
Joseph had a heart of gold, only if you were in his favor. If you weren’t in his favor, you missed out! He had a very large mischievous and playful streak and brought joy and laughter to his family and friends. We have many funny stories we would like to share about Joseph, but are unable to publicly disclose unless you are part of the inner circle. Trust that these stories are unbelievable and painstakingly hilarious! We look forward to gathering together and sharing Joseph’s shenanigans.
He is survived by his son, Alben Joshua Lumalang; his mother, Louella Palalay Lumalang; his fiancé, Veneviv Mena; his sister, Pamela Lumalang Jarrell, and her spouse Kevin Jarrell; his sister, Charlene Mae Lumalang Bergin, and her spouse, Joe Bergin (their son, Cole); his brother, Arthur Joshua Lumalang and his spouse, Janice Cartagena Lumalang (their children: Jaslen, Aiden & Mia). He is loved by his Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, and many dear friends.
Joseph is preceded in death by his father, Alben Ardevela Lumalang, who also passed away 11 years ago on the very same day, Monday, December 7th. Our family is comforted knowing that Joseph joined his father in heaven who lovingly called Joseph, “Pang-gulo” which means troublemaker in Tagalog.
May “Heaven’s Pang-gulo” find peace and laughter in his new adventure in Paradise.