Ricardo “Ricky” Panaligan, 57, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2024, in Scarborough, Ontario. Born in the Philippines on November 13, 1966, Ricardo grew up in Santa Cruz, Manila. He often reminisced about his childhood there, remembering the simplicity of life and the lifelong friendships he forged during those formative years.

Ricardo earned a Bachelor of Architecture degree from Adamson University and had a successful career as an architect in the Philippines. His architectural work brought beauty and functionality to the lives of many. After relocating to Canada, he continued his career for over a decade, managing large-scale public transit, hospital, and condominium construction projects, where his leadership and expertise were greatly valued.

Ricardo met his beloved wife, Marinela “Ella”, during his university days, and together they built a home. He was a devoted father to their daughter, Klarizza, whom he cherished deeply.

What makes Ricardo’s achievements extraordinary is how much he overcame to reach these heights. He set ambitious goals for himself, always determined to give his family a life filled with opportunities and security. His journey from humble beginnings to professional success is a testament to his resilience and unrelenting spirit.

During his free time, Ricardo channeled his creative energy into home improvement and DIY projects, taking great pride in the work he did around his home and with his cars. Whether fixing things or enhancing them, he always found joy in the process. He liked to joke that he was a bit like MacGyver or a boy scout—always ready for a challenge :)

His true happy place, though, was relaxing on the beach, ice cold beer in hand, surrounded by the good company of his family and friends.

To celebrate Ricardo’s life and legacy, a funeral service and mass will be held on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at 10 a.m. at Pine Hills Cemetery and Funeral Centre, 625 Birchmount Rd, Toronto, ON M1K 1R1. Friends and family are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Neuro (Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital), specifically their Rare Neurological Diseases Research Group, in Ricardo's memory. To make donations, please go to https://www.mcgill.ca/neuro/donate.

Ricardo will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his boundless creativity, and his dedication to every project he undertook. His life’s work was not just in the structures he designed, but in the strength and love he built for those around him. He will be deeply missed.