Dennis T. Sarsozo's Obituary
Dennis T. Sarsozo, 56, was called to his eternal rest on August 23, 2023, after a courageous three-year battle with colon cancer. He transitioned peacefully with his family in their home in Ewa Beach, Hawaii.
Dennis was born on January 11, 1967, in Cavite City, Philippines, to Felix Sarsozo Sr. and Lourdes Sarsozo. The second of five brothers, Dennis was instilled with a sense of service and duty from a young age. This calling led him to attend the Philippines Merchant Marine Academy, where he graduated and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1989. Soon after serving his country, he married the love of his life, had his first child, and made a life-altering decision to immigrate his family to the United States where he would later have his three other children.
He continued his dedication to service by enlisting in the United States Army, eventually earning his American citizenship. Dennis served honorably in the Afghanistan War, retiring medically as a Sergeant First Class in 2020 after 12 years of dedicated service. His Army career allowed him to serve with the 18th Airborne Corps and the United States Army Civil Affairs and Psychological Operations Command (Airborne) at Fort Liberty, NC and overseas in United States Army Europe Command in Germany and in South Korea. His military accolades include the Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with M Device, NATO Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal, and Parachutist Badge. He had over 40 jumps out of various aircrafts and earned 10 foreign jump wings during his career.
However, it was on February 3, 2020, when Dennis would face a different kind of battle—Stage 4 colon cancer. From that moment on, he embarked on a remarkable medical journey, undergoing multiple major surgeries and chemotherapy treatments. Rather than complain and accept a 6-month prognosis, he chose to fight, and he chose life.
In search of a warmer climate that would better suit his health and an opportunity to keep the family together, Dennis moved to Hawaii in May 2022, where he eventually chose to prioritize quality of life and spent precious moments with his loved ones. He relished the local Filipino food, relaxed on the beach, and embraced the calming positivity of Hawaiian culture.
He leaves behind his devoted wife of 32 years, Jocelyn, and their four children—Dennilyn Joyce (Stefan) Morell, Alexandra (Nolan) Kirk, Nina Sarsozo, and Dennis Sarsozo Jr. Dennis is also survived by his first grandchild, Aspen, and his soon-to-be grandson, Marcus. His love for his family was his greatest treasure, and he often expressed how he would leave this world content, knowing he did his best for them.
Dennis’ spirit and resilience remain etched in the hearts of everyone who knew him. He was a true fighter, a loving husband, a dedicated father, and a proud grandfather. In his own words, “only God knows our time;” and Dennis and the Sarsozo Family were truly blessed for the time they had together.
Funeral service will be on Wednesday September 27, 2023, at Valley of the Temples Mortuary. Visitation will be at 930am with service to begin at 1030am. There will be a burial to follow at 1pm at Hawaii State Veterans Cemetery.
What’s your fondest memory of Dennis?
What’s a lesson you learned from Dennis?
Share a story where Dennis' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Dennis you’ll never forget.
How did Dennis make you smile?