Arnaldo Reyes Pimentel, affectionately known as “Roger,” passed away peacefully in Virginia Beach at the age of 83. He was born in the Philippines on March 31, 1943, to the late Bernard Saldana and Mercedes Reyes Pimentel.
Roger proudly served this country for 30 years in the United States Navy, traveling the world and dedicating his life to serving others. He retired as a Senior Chief Mess Management Specialist, a position also known as “Mess Specialist.” Throughout his distinguished career, Roger had the honor of preparing meals for numerous admirals and even for President George H. W. Bush.
Outside of his military career, Roger’s greatest passion was, fittingly, cooking. He loved preparing food for his family and friends and took great pride in what he created in the kitchen. He also enjoyed working out, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, traveling, and spending time with those he loved. One of his most recent joys was traveling to the family home in Wintergreen, where he enjoyed friends and neighbors on the mountain and making memories with his family.
Roger was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 55 years, Mary Lou, in 2021, as well as sibling Nene (and her husband Larry) Delos Santos and brother-in-law Justin Alvarino.
Left to cherish his loving memory are his daughter, Angela (Carol), his grand pups, Nelli and Stella; his siblings Letty Alvarino, Pat (Cora) Pimentel, Pert (Cristy) Pimentel, Nette Pimentel and Dimple (Edgar) Curtom along with many nieces, nephews, their children and extended family members and friends who will remember him for his generous spirit, dedication to his family, and love of life.
A Mass will be held at Church of the Holy Family Catholic Church (1279 N. Great Neck Rd, Virginia Beach), on Friday, September 18, at 11am.
Military honors and taps will be rendered at the graveside at the Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery (5310 Milners Rd, Suffolk) Friday, September 18, at 3pm. Live streaming of the graveside service will be provided by Altmeyer Funeral Home.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, September 20, at Altmeyer Funeral Home Southside Chapel (5033 Rouse Drive, Virginia Beach). Live streaming of the celebration will be provided by Altmeyer Funeral Home.
Roger’s life was one of service, adventure, family, and love. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. The family would especially like to thank the healthcare professionals at Virginia Oncology, Trinity Hospice, Ruth’s Care and Judy & Marcos Home Care along with the amazing staff at First Colonial Inn where he resided in Virginia Beach.
