Nelson Mandac's Obituary
Celebrating the life of Nelson Palafox Mandac
Nelson Palafox Mandac was born on November 13, 1958, in San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte, Philippines. He is preceded in death by his father Benjamin Mandac and brother Constante Mandac. He is survived by his mother Virginia Mandac, daughter Ria (Sean) Sanford, and his son Gerald (Levi) Oliveira. He is also survived by his siblings Adelina (David) Domingo, Nikki (Guadalupe) Cardenas, and Ernesto (Basilisa Victorina) Mandac.
Nelson was the youngest of five children. He earned his BS in Industrial Technology at MMSU-IT Laoag City. In the 1990s he spent time in both Hawaii and Dubai where he worked as an architectural and interior designer, specializing in metal work. He designed and manufactured Artworks, High-end Luxury Products, Luxury Furnitures, Architectural Components for hotels, casinos, commercial buildings, palaces and luxury villas.
Later in his career he shifted into the local Honolulu entertainment scene. “Nelson the Great Magician” featured magic shows, DJ, balloon shapes, and party planning. He was also on the Augie T Radio show on Da Pa’ina 93.1 FM. In addition he worked as a promoter for various events, travelled to the west coast for his magic shows, and worked with various local and Filipino celebrities.
To his core, Nelson loved to entertain. He enjoyed making people laugh, with his unique sense of humor. During his down time his hobbies included golfing, gardening, and cooking. Like other Filipinos, he also loved singing karaoke. His go-to song was “My Way” and perfectly sums up how he lived his life. He was always true to himself and his own values.
On Wednesday, August 11, 2021, the family found Nelson unconscious, which led to his untimely and unexpected death.
Funeral service will be held at Valley of the Temples Chapel (47-200 Kahekili Highway Kaneohe, HI 96744) on Thursday, September 16, 2021. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, service is limited to immediate family, in accordance with Governor Ige’s recent mandate of no more than 10 people gathering indoors. However, those who wish to pay their respects may join the family for a drive-thru viewing from 12:15pm-1:30pm. Burial service to follow at Valley of the Temples Memorial Park.
What’s your fondest memory of Nelson?
What’s a lesson you learned from Nelson?
Share a story where Nelson's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Nelson you’ll never forget.
How did Nelson make you smile?