Obituary of Enrique Romero Cairme Jr.

 

Enrique Romero Cairme, Jr.

September 22, 1939 – May 10, 2026

 

Enrique Romero Cairme, Jr., known affectionately as "Iking" or “Junior” among friends and family, passed away in his home in Staten Island, New York, on May 10, 2026, at the age of 86. He was born in his home in Grace Park, Caloocan City, Philippines, on September 22, 1939, to parents Enrique Cairme, Sr. and Rosario Romero. He was the only son amongst six sisters (Consuelo, Manilita, Shirley, Norma, Flordeliza, and Erlinda), and they lived in Caloocan City until the family moved to Manila after World War II. Enrique went on to graduate from Mapua Institute of Technology with degrees in both electrical and mechanical engineering. He later worked for Manila Times and Fortune Tobacco.

 

Enrique was a humble, God-fearing, industrious man. In 1983, he, his wife, and their three children started new lives in New York. He was a dedicated provider, working two full-time jobs for nearly 30 years. He made every effort to care for those he loved through his sacrifices and countless acts of service.

 

He was known for his grit, strong will, generosity, unwavering work ethic, and endearing eccentricities. He loved ping pong, chess, and especially bowling. More than any sport, his greatest hobby was tinkering with his numerous cars.

 

Enrique was a devoted husband to his (late) wife, Rosario Eileen “Charito” Ilustre Cairme, and loving father to Cristy, Chona, and Enric. He was the cherished grandfather to Demelina (David), Caitlyn (Tyler), and Geralyn. He is survived by his two sisters, Norma and Erlinda, as well as all his children and grandchildren. He grew up reciting the rosary each night as a child and thereafter always kept his family and his faith at the center of his life. He has now gone to rejoin his wife, who he had missed dearly since her passing on May 15, 2024, and their Heavenly family.

 

Friends and loved ones are invited to pay their respects on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at Matthew Funeral Home in Staten Island, New York. A funeral mass will be held on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Holy Child Church, followed by his final resting place at Woodbridge Memorial Gardens in Woodbridge, New Jersey.

 

The Cairme family extends their heartfelt thanks for all the love and support during this time and encourages everyone to keep Enrique’s memory alive in their hearts. May he rest in eternal peace with his wife and our Heavenly Father.