Rafael "Raffy/Paeng" Saltarin

Rafael "Raffy/Paeng" Saltarin, 83, of Naples, Florida, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born and raised in the Philippines, Rafael lived a life defined by faith, generosity, and an unwavering devotion to his family.

Rafael started as a jeepney and taxi driver until his journey took him to Saudi Arabia, where he worked diligently as an administrative assistant for Bechtel for many years to support his growing family. It was there, in an unexpected turn, that he found Jesus and embraced his faith as a Born Again Christian. His spiritual awakening transformed not only his life but also that of his entire clan , his wife's clan, neighbors and friends whom he led to a deeper relationship with God. Rafael's faith became the cornerstone of his life, and he often opened his home to Bible studies and shared his joy with the words, "Jesus loves you," "God bless you," "God is good," and "Jesus is awesome."

In 2006, Rafael immigrated to the United States to be closer to his children , settling in Naples, Florida. He worked at Publix on Naples Walk for about 10 years until his retirement. In his free time, Rafael found joy in gardening, tending to his plants with care, watching TFC, and saving his money to share generous gifts with his children and grandchildren during birthdays and Christmases. His love language was giving, no matter how small the gesture, always bringing smiles to those he cherished.

Rafael took immense pride in his family, especially in the accomplishments of his children, who all became medical professionals-three physical therapists and a nurse. He is survived by his devoted wife, Herminia "Emy" Saltarin; his loving children, Noemi (Edsel), Marites (Jun), Joel (Michelle), and Angelie; his cherished grandchildren, Niko ( Karyn) , Tasha ( Ray) , Lizah ( Kyle) , Sophia, Heart, Chloe, Issy, and Sarah; and his beloved great-grandchildren, Kai, Tala, Liam, and Camille; sisters Salvadora, Lita and Leoni; brother Perfecto and several nephews and nieces in the Philippines and in Canada.

A celebration of Rafael's life will be held on October 25, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Naples Church on Immokalee Road, Naples , Florida for family and close friends. In lieu of flowers, the family requests offerings be made to Naples Church (https://www.napleschurch.com) a place that held deep meaning for Rafael and his faith for 16 yrs.

Rafael "Raffy/Paeng" Saltarin will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his boundless love, infectious faith, and the light he brought to every life he touched. As he often shared, his life was guided by the truth of John 3:16: "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

"To Daddy, we miss you deeply, but we're comforted knowing you're in God's embrace, watching over us with that same warm smile. Rest in paradise, Daddy, until we meet again. With love, your family."