Jose "Sonny" Generoso Guanzon Acosta Jr.

Jose “Sonny” Generoso G. Acosta Jr., 61, passed away on Friday, October 22, 2021. He leaves behind his wife, Mari Acosta, his two children, Michelle Rodriguez and Adrian Acosta, his son-in-law, Joshua Rodriguez and daughter-in-law, Reslyn Acosta, his three grandchildren, Eva, Sofia and Aria Rodriguez, and six siblings, Kathy Vallejo, Bernie Flores, Cyndee Yatco, Maris Zara, Lenee Cadotte and Margie LeMaster.

Sonny was born and raised in Manila, Philippines. He and Mari built a family grounded in faith, determination, and strength. Sonny braved pancreatic cancer the same way. On Sonny’s final day, he was surrounded by his family, who adored him more than anything else in the world. His legacy lives on through everyone who loved him.

Sonny was proud to be a career Sailor in the United States Navy, beginning with his enlistment at Subic Bay, Philippines in 1985, and culminating as a Lieutenant Commander in the Navy’s Supply Corps. His military service spanned 29 years and across multiple theatres during the Global War on Terror where he distinguished himself as one of the Navy’s very best field grade officers. He earned numerous accolades to include the Meritorious Service Medal – typically reserved for commanding officers of higher rank in the Navy – five Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, five Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals as well as various campaign and unit awards. Following retirement, Sonny’s expertise pulled him back to the Navy, this time as a civilian where he worked for the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) as a director.

Sonny was a man of deep spiritual faith who wholeheartedly trusted the Lord, loved his family unconditionally, and cherished every moment with the Love of his Life, Mari. His family was extremely proud when he earned his 4th Degree Membership with the Knights of Columbus in Gig Harbor.

Sonny was the ultimate host. It was a given that holiday gatherings were at the Acosta Residence, those fortunate enough to have experienced this know why. He loved spending time with his children, travelling the world with Mari, spending precious quality time with his grandkids, visiting with his siblings, and boating with friends. Among the countless memories, guidance, and support that Sonny provided us, he will forever be remembered for his joyful smile, selflessness, and passion for creating culinary masterpieces. 

Viewing and visitation will be held on Sunday, November 7, from 11:00am to 4:00pm, at Haven of Rest Funeral Home, Gig Harbor. A Requiem mass will be held on Monday, November 8, at 10:30am, at St. Nicholas Catholic Church, Gig Harbor. Sonny will then be transported directly to Tahoma National Cemetery where full military honors will precede his burial.

To send flowers to the family in memory of Sonny, please visit the floral store Haven of Rest has partnered with for this occasion.

To support pancreatic cancer research in Tribute of Sonny, donations in lieu of flowers may be made online to the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance (SCCA) or mailed to Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, PO Box 24385, Seattle, WA 98124-0385. Checks may be payable to SCCA with indication that donation is in memory of Sonny Acosta.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jose "Sonny" Generoso Guanzon Acosta Jr., please visit our floral store.