A Proper Farewell for Nikson, a Beloved Father and USC Fan

Hello, everyone. My name is Loyd Calanoc, and I’m a college student at USC, reaching out to honor the life and legacy of my stepfather, Nikson Moningka. I’ve created this GoFundMe to help my family cover the costs of his funeral and memorial services, so we can say goodbye to him in a way that truly reflects the love and dignity he brought into our lives.

Yesterday, on October 29, our family lost Nikson after a courageous battle with Stage 4 liver cancer. Just a few short months ago, on September 1, he received the diagnosis, and our world was forever changed. Over these last two months, he fought with everything he had, enduring immense pain yet holding on with remarkable strength for us, for my mother, for the family he cherished. In his final moments, he found peace at home, held in my mother’s arms and surrounded by the warmth of the love he had always given so freely to us all.

Nikson entered my life when I was around 10 years old, becoming not only a stepfather but a true father figure, someone who was always there for us. He and my mom married in 2014, and from that day forward, he poured his entire heart into supporting our family. With his daughter Natalia, whom I see as my sister, he was our rock, showing us each day what it means to live with kindness and generosity, always putting our needs above his own.

Nikson was gentle and soft-spoken, with a laugh that could brighten the room. He found so much joy in simply being with us. Whether it was boba runs, cooking his delicious spicy Indonesian dishes, or watching Dodgers and USC football games, he created memories that we’ll hold onto forever. When I got into USC, Nikson celebrated as if it were his own achievement, becoming one of USC’s biggest fans overnight. I can’t recall a single argument, not one, nor a moment when he raised his voice to me. He was the most patient, easygoing presence, a true friend and father to me and my siblings.

These past few months have been especially hard, watching him in so much pain while he fought to stay with us. What breaks my heart is knowing how deeply he wanted to hold on for just a little longer to be there for his daughter’s birthday, which is in just two weeks. This was a milestone he was determined to reach, and he gave everything to try and make it.

I am also heartbroken knowing he won’t be here to see me graduate, a moment I had always hoped we would share together. Though he won’t be there physically, I am determined to live in a way that would make him proud every day.

For those who never got to know Nikson, I wish I could show you the man he was. His kindness shaped me in ways I’ll carry forever. If you know me, you’ve felt his impact in some way; he taught me that life is best lived with compassion, that family is everything, and that we should give freely to others without hesitation.

This GoFundMe is to help my mom and our family cover the costs of Nikson’s funeral and memorial, estimated at around $14,000 to cover everything from the funeral home to the viewing and burial. We come from a low-income, paycheck-to-paycheck background, and these costs are beyond our reach. Any help, no matter the amount, would be an immense blessing, allowing us to honor him in a way that reflects the love and care he showed us.

Nikson was the one who held us together, who supported my mom when no one else could. His presence brought stability, love, and joy that filled our home. From the bottom of my heart, I thank each of you for any support you can offer, for standing with us, and for honoring the memory of this incredible man.