Lujana, hey listen to me, you are disoriented. Now go home and go to sleep and take care of your family. Don’t worry, we will solve this.”
And he did. He solved what seemed impossible for us. And for anyone who knew him, he was simply brilliant like that.
I can still hear him saying this, his voice steady, his presence like a shield against every storm that came our way. That was Atty. Joel Obar.
Never rattled. Never uncertain. Always ready to fight for those who couldn’t fight for themselves.
A man who stood for what was right, not just because it was his duty, but because it was who he was.
Atty. Joel Obar was more than just a formidable lawyer, he was a beacon of hope, a friend, a fighter, and a force to be reckoned with.
For our family, he was not just our legal counsel, he was Tito Joel, a confidant, a constant, and a comforting presence in our home.
His visits, unannounced yet always welcome, turned into warm conversations over coffee with my mother. His wisdom didn’t just defend us in court, it fortified our spirits when we felt broken.
He loved helping and he did so with joy every time. He would order his favorite Kuranchi rolls and shrimp tempura each time he was in town and gladly share it with his team.
When we were sorely tried 5 years ago, he stood in the gap for us, holding up our morale when we could barely hold ourselves together.
He was the kind of warrior who never entertained the idea of surrender, who carried both intellect and heart in equal measure.
His wisdom was razor-sharp, his presence commanding, yet he carried himself with a generosity that was impossible to miss.
He fought, not just with the brilliance of his mind, but with the fullness of his heart.
He made time for us, even when his schedule was overflowing. He had a way of making you feel that your worries were his worries too, that your battles were his battles too.
And when he sat across from you, whether in a virtual courtroom or a quiet dinner table, he had the uncanny ability to make you believe that everything would be alright.
His life was one of service, an offering of strength, intellect, and unwavering loyalty to the people who needed him most.
And when he left, he left nothing undone. He fought for us until the very end. Even in his circumstance, he was making sure we were taken care of.
The night before he passed, I thought of him, without reason or warning. And the next morning, mom called with the news, and I understood. Perhaps, somehow, his spirit was already saying goodbye.
I’ve been mustering my emotions and words to lay out how grateful we are of him and I’m glad I was able to convey it time and time again whenever we messaged each other.
I may forget a lot of people over the course of time but not this one here.
Atty, you may no longer read this but I’m writing this to let your family and loved ones know how grateful we are to share your life and have a little piece of your kindness, grace and brilliance.
My little family and I will always remain grateful. Of all the swarming consolations, the one coming from you is always the most comforting.
And so for the last time, Thank you for your life Atty!
You were a hero until your last breath. You will not be forgotten. My family and I will carry your kindness, your strength, and the peace you so willingly fought for us.
Rest now, Atty. You did well. And you are deeply, deeply loved.
May our Heavenly Father be with you, as you are finally at rest.
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Author’s email: LujanaHerrenauw7@gmail.com
