Cenon Zarzoso, age 56, of Laurens, passed away on Friday, February 21, 2025, at Sanford USD Medical Center in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Cenon de Leon Zarzoso was born on December 14, 1968, in the Philippines. He was the youngest of seven children of Jorge and Fe Zarzoso. He pursued his education in the Philippines and graduated from Naga College Foundation in Naga City. After high school, he worked alongside his father in construction, helping to build homes, and later found employment as a helper at Peñas Rental in Naga City.

Cenon came to America in March 2015 after waiting 24 years for his visa approval with the help of his sister, Flor, who petitioned for him.

He resided with his family in Laurens and was employed at Jack Link's for several months before being diagnosed with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). This diagnosis led him to step away from his role in the production department. He soon began dialysis treatment and bravely endured numerous surgeries and medical challenges. Undergoing dialysis never diminished his dedication to his family. He continued to help around the house and care for his family, especially for his brother-in-law, Harlan.

Cenon had a deep love for gardening, fishing, and trying his luck with the lottery. A devoted man of faith, he found great joy in attending church and reading his Bible daily. He was a dedicated member of Bethany Lutheran Church and served on the board of directors for the Reach for the Stars Foundation, a family non-profit organization. Though naturally quiet and reserved, Cenon's generosity and kindness spoke volumes, leaving a lasting impact on countless children and families in his homeland, the Philippines. He also cherished caring for the family's beloved pets, bringing them the same gentleness and compassion he shared with everyone around him.

In December 2024, he proudly became a U.S. citizen. Though he had planned to return to the Philippines, his Creator called him home, where he will be at peace forever, free from pain.

Those left to cherish his memory are his sister Flor Z. Johnsen, brothers Ireneo, Manuel (USA), and Narciso Zarzoso (Philippines). Nephews & Nieces: Julian (Mackenzie), Harlan Jr., Jorge, Diana Johnsen, Manuel Zarzoso Jr, (USA); Cherry Fe, Esterly, Rachell, Jorge III, Francia Z. Sabater, Sandy, Ahron, Dandy, Juno, Amihan, Junar, Jackie, Jenna, (Philippines), Great nephews & nieces: Raelyn, Isabella, Jens, Niels (USA); Ashley, Dimple, Boboy, children of Sandy, Ahron, Amihan, Rachell, and Esterly (Philippines). He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers Salvador and Jorge Jr.

His final resting place will be back home in the Philippines. Cenon "Ayong" will be deeply missed by his family and all those who knew and loved him.