Longtime Filipino waiter for Crystal Cruises dies

Kiko Payongayong, 50, a waiter for Crystal Cruises for 27 years, left behind a wife and four kids. GOFUNDME

A longtime Filipino employee of Crystal Cruises recently died, according to a Go Fund Me page created by one of his friends.

There is speculation about the crew member’s cause of death but Crystal Cruises has not made an official statement to date, according to Jim Walker of CruiseLawNews.com.

Kiko Payongayong, 50, reportedly worked for Crystal Cruises as a waiter for 27 years. He is survived by a wife and four children.

There have been at least six crew members who reportedly ended their lives since May 1st and one who attempted to do so. In addition, Royal Caribbean stated that one crew member on the Mariner of the Seas reportedly died of “natural causes,” although it did not release an official cause of death.

According to the  Go Fund Me page:

“Kiko Payongayong was a Crystal favorite. Kiko was with Crystal for 27 years and beloved of so many. With his infectious smile, Kiko was always so cheerful and shared his happiness with everybody he’d meet.  He will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

This fund was created to help Kiko’s family. He leaves behind a wife and four children. 100% of the funds raised will go directly to his family. Please consider helping them in this time of great sorrow and need.”

Among messages posted by several donors were:

• John Rigneydonated $200

To the family of Kiko Payongayong, It breaks my heart to hear that Kiko has left us. He was one of the main reasons for my loyalty to the Crystal Symphony. He always had a smile — a huge smile — and he always had a moment to talk, and he always displayed the highest degree of professionalism. I hope it will bring you some consolation to know that there are thousands of people from countries all over the globe whose lives have been blessed by knowing Kiko. John Rigney

• Tom David David donated $1,000

I’m sure there were times I should have left a tip and did not. He was such a sweet guy, earnest, soft spoken, kind. My condolences to his family and to his friends on the crew.