VIA Times – February 2015 Issue Vital News, Vibrant VIews for Asian Americans in Chicago & Midwest
Agustin ‘Joe’ Sarmiento suddenly passed away on Thursday, January 16th, 2015 at Little Company of Mary Hospital in Evergreen Park, IL. He was surrounded by his loving family.
He was born into life in Pangasinan, Philippines, established himself in Baguio City for many years, and then set off to the United States where he made Chicago his home. He is the beloved husband of Aida Sarmiento; loving father of Alfemarie (Markus Sanchez) Sarmiento, Victoria Sarmiento, Agustin Boyet (Alma) Sarmiento, Portia (Thomas) Guerin, and the late Agustin Joey Sarmiento III (Beth Prado and Claudia Kral); adoring grandfather of Sydney Sanchez, Joshua, Gabrielle, Jed and Lauren Sarmiento, and Alex Guerin; dear son of the late Felizardo and Macaria Sarmiento; caring brother of Naty Viado; fond uncle, caring cousin, and dear friend of many.
He was a self-made man. From his humble barrio roots he was extremely driven to excel. He was a savvy business man and entrepreneur – personable and charismatic. In Baguio City, Philippines, he owned Sarmiento Studio and was the official photographer for the Girls Scouts of Philippines. Here in the United States, he was a professional photographer, supervisor at Johnson & Johnson, and supervisor/distributor of Shaklee Products. In 1983, he founded TravelFast Travel Agency on the north side of Chicago. He was also an active community leader in public service – both in the Philippines and the United States. He was considered a pillar within the Filipino community.
He was an active member of Philippine Jaycee’s of Baguio City, B.I.B.A.K. of Chicago, and Lions Club of Chicago. He was a former board member and administrator of the Filipino American Council of Chicago and former Area Commander (KGOR) of the Order of the Knights of Rizal, Central U.S.A. Council.
During his retirement years, he continued to be active in business by investing in real estate. However, he spent the majority of his time active in church, gardening, cooking for his family, and enjoying his grandchildren. Joe Sarmiento touched so many people’s lives and will be missed.
