Demosthenes M. Tupaz (known as D.M.), Registered Architect, a longtime resident of Montclair, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at the age of 99.

D.M. was born February 4, 1926 , in Samar, Philippines, to the late Vicente Tupaz and Maria Marquez Tupaz. D.M was the beloved brother of the pre deceased siblings; Augusto M. Tupaz (Engr.), Beatriz T. Tecson, Celestino M. Tupaz (Engr.) and Eulogio M. Tupaz (Engr.).

As a young teenager, D.M. survived WWII and was given the opportunity to complete his studies in the United States. In the 1950's he embarked on a two-month boat ride to the U.S with one bag on his back and a copy of the required chest X-ray studies. He was so thin due to the scarce food supply during the war that padding was necessary to keep his pants from falling. D.M began his studies in Oklahoma, then moved to Texas. He earned his Architecture Degree from The University of Houston. Intrigued by the tall buildings and lights, D.M. then moved to the east coast, settling in New Jersey while working in New York City. As a newcomer to the East Coast, D.M. achieved the title as Board Certified Registered Architect and was employed by The Port of Authority of NY & NJ. He took pride in his commute to his work in The World Trade Center, South Tower (Tower 2) to the 75th floor until he retired in 1986 as he had accomplished his goal.

Demosthenes is survived by his devoted wife Lolita S. Tupaz, united in marriage for 54 years; his loving daughter Christine T. Moore and warm hearted son-in-law Kevin Moore; a host of nieces, nephews, grand nieces, grand nephews, great grand nieces, great grand nephews, other family members and friends.

D.M. was a God-fearing man, a loving and faithful husband, a kind hearted disciplinarian and nurturing father; a father figure to family members and a mentor to many. He was a self-made man who came to the United States with nothing. D.M. studied diligently, worked hard, sacrificed to survive in a new country alone, with no family nor support. He was a pioneer to his family in the Philippines. And to his family he built in the U.S., his favorite words of advice were "always do the right thing". A very disciplined and noble man in every aspect of his life; family, work and his daily routines, which allowed him to fully enjoy his retirement. His favorite pastimes were researching topics on the internet until the wee hours of the morning; enjoyed baking fresh bread for his family and also reveled in participating in quarterly Blackjack tournaments in Las Vegas. Most of all, he provided for his loved ones and always strived to learn how to improve life for him and his family. A God-fearing man that always said, "God is First in our lives". He was a long time member of The Knights of Columbus at Immaculate Conception Church in Montclair. With the help of the Brother Knights, actively participated in the 4th of July parades and Retreats in his 90's.

His family is extremely proud of him, his achievements, accomplishments and will truly be missed. A man of few words who did not say much but had a heart and soul of gold and gave so much.

Visiting hours Thursday February 13th from 4-8pm at Caggiano Memorial, 62 Grove St, Montclair. A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Friday 11am at Immaculate Conception Church in Montclair, entombment at Holy Cross Mausoleum in North Arlington.