In Loving Memory

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Elpideforo Reyes Culi, affectionately known as Elpi, who passed away peacefully on December 2, 2025, in Richmond, British Columbia, at the age of 87.

Early Life and Family

Elpi was born on December 21, 1937, in the barrio of San Jose, Negros Oriental, Philippines, to Gaudencio V. Culi and Felisa V. Reyes. He was a devoted husband to Myrna, a loving father to Ray and Ellen, and a proud grandfather to five grandchildren.

Education and Early Years

Elpi spent his youth in the City of Tanjay, Negros Oriental, including living near the headquarters of the Japanese Imperial Army during World War II. He later earned an Associate degree in Surveying and Civil Engineering from Silliman University in Dumaguete City. A few months before completing his degree, Elpi met a young registered nurse, Myrna Banogon, who was renting a room from his uncle. The two soon became sweethearts.

Marriage, Career, and Life in Canada

After working for several years in Manila as a building inspector, Elpi followed Myrna to Toronto, Canada, in December 1966, where he worked in Loss Control and Prevention. Elpi and Myrna were married in Toronto on May 20, 1967. Just over a year later, they welcomed their son, Elmyr Ray. Elpi’s work later transferred the family to Vancouver in 1970, and in 1971 they welcomed their daughter, Ellen Renee. In 1985, the family moved to Richmond, where Elpi and Myrna have resided ever since.

A Life of Many Roles

Over his long and full life, many names and roles can be used to describe Elpi: son, brother, husband, dad, grandpa, lolo, uncle, tito, Uncle Gus, engineer, Boy Scout, McGyver, safety inspector, home-improvement specialist (fondly known as the “blind man from Mars” for his window coverings), security guard, inventor, collector, chauffeur, basketball player and fan, soccer coach and fan, hockey fan, wrestling fan, boxing fan, and speed typist.

Passions and Community Involvement

Elpi’s passions included photography and videography, capturing people and places; hot sauce, especially Tabasco; music; and ballroom dancing. He also found deep fulfillment through his community involvement, including service with the Knights of Columbus as financial secretary, volunteering as an usher at Holy Name of Jesus Parish, serving as a co-founder of the Bisaya Cultural Circle, and volunteering with the RCMP.

Remembering Elpi

Elpi will be remembered for his curiosity, ingenuity, generosity of spirit, and deep devotion to family and community. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.