The island is mourning the loss of local businessman and philanthropist Thomas J.M "Jerry" Calvo. He was known for his entrepreneurial spirit and his down to earth personality. And for governor of Guam Eddie Calvo, his uncle was someone very special in his life.

"I'm deeply saddened both as public servant for what my Uncle Jerry contributed to the community," the governor shared. "But as a nephew, on a personal basis for the passing of my uncle who was like another dad to me, as well, and had been there to support me and was a great mentor to me as well both in the private and public sector."

The local businessman and philanthropist passed away early Monday morning. Along with being one of the owners of Calvo Enterprises, Calvo was the director and chair of many Calvo-owned businesses as well as a host of business ventures with his children under the Jake & Associates umbrella including Bestseller Bookstores, and Cup and Saucer. Along with his business experience, Jerry Calvo also was involved in many church, political, civic and community organizations during his lifetime most notably being recognized by the Catholic church as a Sir Knight of Saint Sylvester and a Knight of Columbus.

He was also played an instrumental role in the University of Guam Endowment Foundation's board of directors spearheading numerous successful signature fundraisers for the UOG Endowment Foundation, including the annual Chef's Cup gala.

Aside from his business and community work, Governor Calvo says his uncle jerry was always there to lend a helping hand, noting, "If there was one man who exemplified youthful exuberance was my Uncle Jerry - he passed at an old age, but he was always young at heart. And he's also a man that could never say no. He was a very giving man, and if you asked my dad and some of my other family members, he was the one Calvo that has more friends of anyone of our families. He's just a friendly outgoing man."

Jerry Calvo is survived and will be missed greatly by his wife Rosario "Charo", his children, grandchildren, brother Paul and his wife Rose and numerous nieces, nephews, friends, employees and colleagues.

Jerry Calvo was 77.