Obituary: Justo Albert Moraga, Sr.

Obituary was published and funeral arrangements were entrusted to the care and direction of the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home and Crematory.

Justo Albert Moraga, Sr.

Justo Albert Moraga, Sr., passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at St. Joseph Medical Center, at the age of 68. Born on July 17, 1957, in the Philippines, Justo was the beloved son of the late Juan and Avelina (nee Roberta) C. Moraga. He was raised on the family's farm, where strong values and a diligent work ethic were instilled early in life. He later joined his family’s business as a jeweler, beginning a lifelong journey rooted in craftsmanship, responsibility, and care.

Justo immigrated to the United States, where he built a life defined by commitment to his career, his community, and most importantly, his family. He worked faithfully for 27 years with Turano Bakery, retiring in 2023. A man driven by purpose, Justo balanced his work life with personal passions that brought him joy, including playing tennis and enjoying meals out with family and his beloved wife, with whom he shared a deeply bonded companionship.

Family always remained at the heart of who Justo was, shaping him into a role model not only for his children but for many in his extended family and community. Those who knew Justo remember him as a man of integrity and intellect, someone whose life centered around the care for others and a deep sense of purpose. He was always business-minded, yet balanced this with humility and joy, never missing a moment to share or teach. Whether at the tennis court, family dinner table, or offering steady advice to guide his sons, Justo exemplified what it meant to live fully and love fiercely.

Justo’s proudest legacy is the family he guided with love and wisdom. He is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Luningning (nee Valerio) Moraga; five sons, Mark (Racquel) Moraga, Gerald Moraga, Valeria Moraga, Justo (Taryn) Moraga, Jr., and Julian Bernard Moraga; four cherished grandchildren, Roxanne, Maribella, Sage Jean, and Emery Angelo Moraga; his siblings, Ed (Melanie) Moraga,

Aida (Carlito) Virtudazo, Fe Marie (JoJo) Manzano, and Carmelo (Maritess) Moraga; his niece, Anicelle (Kyle) Possedi and her children, Maximus, Maddison, and Dominic Jeter Negrete—with a new family member expected soon. Numerous other nieces, nephews, and cousins also survive.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, Francisco Moraga.

Visitation for Justo Albert Moraga, Sr. will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Rd., Joliet, IL, from 12:00 p.m. until the time of Funeral Service at 4:00 p.m.

The family has requested to live stream the services of their loved one on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. Please click on this link (https://youtube.com/live/H_4-P3czrrk?feature=share) and follow the instructions to show your support for them at a time when you cannot be physically present, but your thoughts, prayers and connection are.

As it was his request, cremation rites will be accorded following the services.

For more information please call (815)741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.

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