A tribute to a comrade

This is to commemorate and honor the legacy and memory of our dear coworker and friend, Jeffrey N. Maratita, fondly called Jeff. Listening to the ocean waves pounding against the rocks reminds me of the roaring sound of the boom-truck from afar driven by Jeff Maratita and Wayne Sanchez. They were the ones who operated this machine. That Jeff and Wayne are coming to the Chalan Kanoa compound (CK shop) is what the boys would say when say when hearing this sound. Sadly, Jeff will not be returning to work anymore.

Jeff has served the Mayor’s Office for 18 long years. I believe that he served under three consecutive mayors. The current Honorable Mayor Juan B. Tudela has retained him again during his second term for the sole reason that Jeff has potential and is a hard worker. The CK Compound boys will vouch for his positive work attitude and diligence.

Reminiscing on his humor at work, Jeff and Wayne had a signature name. They called each other “colleague” at all times instead of their birth names. Jeff would usually joke to Donald Crisostomo in the morning, which irritated Donald. He also liked to joke (horseplay) around with Pete Lucas, who always responded, “Quit it Jeff.”

On the morning of April 15, 2008, an untimely tragedy befell upon us when Jeff perished while in the line of duty. He was only 37 years old, the youngest among his siblings. He had a unique characteristic. People were fond to look at his blue and green eyes. His eyes’ distinction showed more when he was inebriated. He left behind a loving wife, Julie and five adoring children. His eldest son, David Peter, is now attending Northern Marianas College. Jerry Thomas is in Guam attending the Department of Defense Military School. Tzarina Mae is studying in New York. The other two children are still attending primary school at San Antonio. It is hard to bear to leave a family behind, most especially his wife, Julie, who will now have to be a motherly and fatherly figure to their children. However, Jeff is spiritually watching over them from above.

Once again, we will remember our fallen comrade, Jeff N. Maratita, who accidentally died performing his work. His memory will always be with us. The Honorable Mayor Juan B. Tudela and staff offer their sincere condolences to his wife, children, and the entire Nakatsukasa and Maratita family. The Mayor’s Office truly is his second family. We are all mourning his loss. Rest in peace and May the almighty Lord be with you. Adios amigo.

With heartfelt appreciation,