Ariel Joseph Eugenio

Ariel Joseph Eugenio passed away surrounded by the love of his family, leaving behind a life defined by a love of learning, creativity, and deep love for the people around him.

Ariel was born in the Philippines to Gemma and Alberto Eugenio. In 1968, his family immigrated to the United States and eventually made their home in Vallejo, California. He graduated from Hogan High School and went on to serve his country in the United States Air Force.

Ariel had an incredible mind and a natural gift for building and creating. He was a true tinkerer who found joy in figuring out how things worked and making them better. During his career as an engineer, he earned two patents, including one for a specialized ceramic casting used in Rolls-Royce and aerospace components. He approached every challenge with determination, curiosity, and a quiet confidence in his ability to solve it.

In 2013, after many years as an engineer, Ariel followed a new passion and made the transition into winemaking. He worked with Blackbird Vineyards and Quixote Winery, bringing his strong work ethic, ingenuity, and engineering mindset into the wine world. He loved sharing his wines with friends and family and took great pride in creating his own blends, including an Eugenio Wines blend and a Belinda Rosé, both made for the ones he loved.

Ariel felt most at peace near the water. For many years, he was a member of outrigger canoe paddling teams including Benicia Outrigger Canoe Club and Ohana Wa‘a in Napa. Through paddling, he found community, connection, and a deep appreciation for the water he loved.

He was a devoted father to his two sons, Andrew and Christian, and was incredibly proud of the men they had become. Becoming a grandfather brought him one of his greatest joys. His grandson Aiden, born in 2011, was truly the center of his world. Ariel lovingly called him his “bubba” and cherished every moment they spent together. In 2025, he welcomed his granddaughter Camaiya (Yaya,) the first girl in the family. He was overjoyed by her birth and loved her deeply. Ariel looked forward to watching her grow up and being part of her life.

Ariel and Belinda’s story began years earlier, when they first met as friends in middle school—a simple connection that time would quietly hold onto. Life eventually led them down different paths, but in October 2016, they found their way back to one another. What began as a reconnection soon revealed itself to be something deeper—something meant to be. They became soulmates, building a life together filled with immense love, devotion, laughter, and adventure, a bond that felt both effortless and unwavering.

Together, Ariel and Belinda created an incredible life and were truly inseparable—best friends and devoted partners in every sense. They shared not only their days with each other, but also with their families and the vibrant community they built around them. They found joy in movement and connection through their gym family, leading and attending classes, uplifting others, and turning friendships into something that felt like home. Their gatherings with friends in San Ramon were filled with energy and laughter, often brought to life through playful themed parties that reflected their shared spirit.

Ariel embraced Belinda’s children, Harrison and Gabby, with a love that was truly his own. He showed up for them in ways that mattered—offering steady support, encouragement, and care from their middle school years into adulthood. In turn, Harrison and Gabby came to love Ariel as a father, holding deep gratitude for the joy, warmth, and love he brought into their mother’s life.

Ariel had a natural, effortless way of connecting with people. He carried a deep understanding of the world—from the mountains to the sea, and everything in between—and he found joy in sharing his experiences and wisdom with others. In doing so, he had a rare gift for bringing out the very best in everyone he met.

Together, Ariel and Belinda created countless meaningful memories, not just for themselves, but for all those who were part of their lives. Their love was something truly special—a genuine gift that touched and uplifted everyone who knew them. Theirs was a love story rooted in friendship, strengthened by time, and lived fully—with joy, purpose, and a lasting bond that will always be remembered.

Hawaii held a special place in their hearts—a sanctuary where they felt most at peace. They returned often, drawn by the beauty of the islands, the rhythm of the ocean, and the deep sense of belonging Ariel felt there. It was their dream to one day retire in the place they both loved so deeply.

Ariel will be remembered for his kind and caring heart, his adventurous spirit, his sharp mind, and the way he showed up for the people he loved. He found joy in simple moments, in building things with his hands, in being active, and most of all in being surrounded by family and friends.

He is survived by his partner, Belinda Berdan; his sons, Andrew Eugenio (Kristi) and Christian Eugenio (Michelle); his grandchildren, Aiden Eugenio and Camaiya Eugenio; Belinda's children, Harrison and Gabby; his mother, Gemma Eugenio; his siblings, Gaylord Eugenio (Sandy), Alma Fuentes (Tito), and Alymar Eugenio, Tony Eugenio, Marissa Eugenio, Grace Eugenio, Arlene Valentin, and Alex Eugenio; and many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.

Ariel will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.

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