US highest ranking Knights of Rizal dies at 81

The Knights of Rizal held a necrological service on Januart 26 at the Philippine American Ecumenical Church and a plaque of appreciation for his lifetime service in the cause of Rizalism was received by his cousin Grace Faypon-Cabrera and his brother Jose from Mariano A. Santos, KOR Central USA area commander. PINOY

CHICAGO — Eliodore Urias-Faypon,KGCR, the highest ranking Knight of Rizal in Central USA area had passed on Thursday, January 23 at his home in Chicago. He was 81. His younger brother, Jose, announced the sad news of his passing.

Eli was the very first regional commander and was a founding member of the premier KOR Chicago Chapter. He led the formation of the first seven KOR chapters in the United States, traveling extensively and spending his personal funds to initiate the formation of KOR chapters in Florida, Texas, Wisconsin and assisted in the formation of the Los Angeles, New York and Ohio Chapters.

He was a tireless speaker on Rizalism and attended countless international and regional Rizal Conferences.

For his exemplary work, he received the Supreme Commander’s Leadership Award and the Most Distinguished Service award–among the many accolades and recognition awards bestowed upon him.

He was a holder of a PhD in Philosophy from a German University and spent eight years in the seminary before he moved to Chicago where he headed the Department of Aging and Disabilities and where he later retired with distinction.

Until the last few months he remained active in community activities. He was always generous in supporting the needy especially young students both here and in his home province of Cagayan and in Ilocos Sur.

For his involvement and financial support, the Filipino American Council of Chicago had given him the Most Outstanding Community Service Award.

One of his last wishes was for him to be cremated with his ashes to be brought home to his birthplace. A memorial mass was offered at his home parish, Holy Rosary Church in Chicago.