We honor the life of Este- a devoted Catholic, beloved husband, loving father and grandfather, accomplished metallurgical engineer, and respected professional leader.
Este was the son of Colonel Bartolome and Purificacion (nee Maniquiz) Gacad. A beloved husband of Harriette with whom he shared 54 years of love, faith, family, and cherished memories. A devoted father to their three daughters: Cel (Anthony), Ricca (Robert), and Ivy (Raul). He was a cherished “Lolo” to his grandchildren, Kythe and Lia, Malachi and Riley, Giancarlo and Matteo.
A proud graduate of the University of the Philippines, Este earned his Bachelor of Science in Metallurgical Engineering and pursued graduate studies in Metallurgical Engineering and Business Administration. He dedicated more than three decades to the Philippine steel and metallurgical industries. He served in senior leadership and consulting roles and contributed significantly to metallurgy, steelmaking, quality management, energy conservation, environmental management, and engineering education.
Este also served with distinction as Chairman of the Board of Metallurgical Engineering at the Philippine Professional Regulation Commission, where his guidance shaped the standards, ethics, and future of the profession. His work as a mentor, author, and regulator left a lasting impact on generations of engineers.
Among his many honors was the Ten Outstanding Energy Managers Award in 1986. His leadership in energy conservation also contributed to his organization’s Don Emilio Abello Outstanding Awards in 1992, 1993, and 1995, followed by the Don Emilio Abello Hall of Fame Award in 1996. He also received a Certificate of Recognition from the Department of Trade and Industry, Bureau of Product Standards, and a Letter of Commendation from the Commanding General of the Philippine Air Force.
Este was one of eight children. He is survived by his siblings Bart Jr. (Letty), Adela (Roy), Tony (Evelyn) and Lito (Cecil). He was preceded in death by Gerry+ (Lydia+), Lina+ (Eddie) and Romy+ (Nida).
Este will be remembered for his deep Catholic faith, intelligence, integrity, humility, dedication, and lifelong commitment to learning and service. While his professional accomplishments were many, his greatest source of pride was the family he loved so dearly.
He leaves behind a legacy that reaches across generations—not only through his professional contributions and accomplishments, but through the values he instilled in his children and grandchildren and the love he shared with his family.
His faith guided his life.
His family was his greatest blessing.
His work was his legacy.
His love will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.
Service: Funeral from Kutis South County Chapel (5255 Lemay Ferry Road) on Saturday, October 10, 2026 9:30 AM for 10:00 AM Mass at St Joseph Catholic Church Imperial, Missouri to Kutis Crematory. Visitation on Friday, October 9 from 4:00 – 8:00 PM. Interment at St Joseph Cemetery Tuesday, October 13 at 10:00 AM.