In Loving Memory of Kobe Rayden Maltizo (April 17, 2013 – July 12, 2025)
With hearts full of sorrow and love, we gather to remember and celebrate the life of Kobe Rayden Maltizo, a bright and beloved young soul who left this world far too soon on the morning of July 12, 2025. At only 12 years old, Kobe touched the lives of all who knew him with his kindness, boundless energy, infectious laughter, and unwavering love for his family and friends.
Born on April 17, 2013, Kobe was the treasured son of Annamarie Cadapan Merced and Guiffre Ryan Maltizo, and a cherished brother to Kayla, RJ, Christian, and Kenny. He brought endless joy to his proud grandparents: Cesar Merced, Saturnina Merced, Edwin Maltizo, and the late Roseviminda Maltizo.
Kobe lived his life with a heart full of love, a spirit full of adventure, and a personality that could light up any room. Those who had the blessing of knowing him will always remember him as a kind, well-mannered, caring, and genuinely joyful boy. His comedic nature and quick wit made him the life of every gathering — the “goofy, loud one” whose laughter echoed throughout the home and left lasting memories with family and friends alike.
Kobe poured his heart into everything he did. His passion for sports was unmatched — a proud member of the Carol Stream Panther Youth Football Team, where he built bonds with teammates and earned the admiration of his coaches for both his talent and his humble, hardworking spirit. His dream of one day becoming a professional football player fueled his determination both on and off the field. He also took pride in competing as a wrestler for Stratford Middle School, always pushing himself to grow stronger.
But Kobe’s true strength lay in the relationships he nurtured. With his siblings, he shared a unique and unbreakable bond. He sought out new adventures and tasted new foods with his Ate Kayla, talked sports and strategy with Kuya RJ, shared a shadow-like closeness with Christian, who was rarely more than a step behind him, and filled the home with giggles and playful tickles with Kenny. These relationships were the center of Kobe’s world and the source of countless cherished moments.
Beyond his family, Kobe was a loyal and loving friend. Whether he was playing video games into the night with his closest friends or spending the day outdoors fishing and biking, Kobe was always surrounded by laughter and love. His friendships were built on genuine care and shared joy — the hallmarks of a boy who simply loved to make others happy.
Today, as we mourn this unimaginable loss, we also give thanks for every smile, every laugh, and every precious memory shared with Kobe. His life, though brief, was a shining example of love, joy, and the beauty of living with an open heart. Though he has left this world, Kobe’s spirit will continue to guide us — his laughter, his energy, and his love living on in the hearts of all who knew him.
We invite Kobe’s friends, teammates, and members of the Carol Stream community to join us in honoring his memory during visitation on Tuesday, July 22nd, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Bucaro Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 485 W Army Trail Rd, Bloomingdale, IL 60108. A time for sharing stories and heartwarming experiences with Kobe will be offered.
On Wednesday, July 23rd, family and friends will gather for a Funeral Mass at 10:45 AM at St. Isidore Parish, 427 W. Army Trail Rd, Bloomingdale, as we come together in prayer and remembrance. Interment will be private.
As we celebrate Kobe’s remarkable life, let us hold tight to the joy he gave us and carry forward his legacy of laughter, love, and kindness. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.
Rest in peace, dear Kobe. You are forever loved, forever remembered, and forever in our hearts.