VOLANTE, FLORENCIO L.

VOLANTE, FLORENCIO L. Florencio "Bob" L. Volante, a cherished patriarch and treasured friend, passed away peacefully on December 26, 2023, in Chesapeake, VA. He was a longtime resident of Cape May, NJ before living the last five years with his son in Chesapeake. Born on November 12, 1930, in Naga City, Philippines, Florencio's journey was marked with unwavering love, kindness, and selfless devotion to his family and community. Florencio's memory is carried on through his loving children: Joey (Terri) Pulanco, Jun Volante, Willy (Arlene) Volante, Emma (Robert) Attenborough, Gleasy (Tim) Bilger, son-in-law Chip Shelley, and daughter-in-law Alma Volante. His legacy continues to flourish through his adoring grandchildren, Cheryl Tang, Vanessa Morris, Robert M. Attenborough, Randy Volante, Nathan Volante, Anna Volante, Jon Volante, Christina Roh, Christopher Shelley, Sean Bilger, and Matthew Bilger. He was also a doting great-grandfather to twenty great-grandchildren, who, along with many nieces and nephews, will remember him fondly. Florencio was greeted in the next life by his beloved wife, Pelagia Pulanco Volante, his dear daughter Helen Shelley, his esteemed parents Tiburcio and Juliana Lagasca Volante, and his siblings Eusebio, Isabelo, Priscilla, Crispin, and Aida, who had predeceased him. They are undoubtedly reunited in joyous celebration. During his tenure with the United States Coast Guard, Florencio served faithfully for 21 years. His commitment to excellence and honor remained with him long into retirement. He fostered camaraderie and cultural unity as an active member of the American Filipino Association of North Cape May and a devout parishioner at St. John Neumann Parish at St. John of God Church. Florencio's passions painted the tapestry of his leisurely life. An avid fisherman, he found solace on the water. His card games were always full of laughter and friendship. Morning breakfasts with friends at McDonald's were daily highlights that he so enjoyed. A steward and sous chef, Florencio left his culinary mark on local restaurants, especially renowned for his delectable crab cakes. His expertise extended to eager students at the Cape May County Vocational Technical School, where he contributed to the craft of cooking. Known as loving, selfless, and kind, Florencio's life was an embodiment of these virtues. He nourished the bodies and hearts of those around him with his cooking and his care. Though he has set sail for his final horizon, the essence of Florencio L. Volante's spirit will continue to guide and inspire all who knew and loved him. Rest in peace, dear Florencio; your memory remains our blessing. Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, January 5, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at St. John Neumann Parish at St. John of God Church, 680 Town Bank Road, Cape May, NJ 08204, where viewing will be held from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. Interment will be in the Cape May County Veterans Cemetery, Cape May Court House. Condolences at www.radzieta.com