Paul Calvo
HAGÅTÑA (The Guam Daily Post) — Former Gov. Paul McDonald Calvo, the father of former Gov. Eddie Baza Calvo, died at his home early Wednesday surrounded by family. He was 90 years old. Paul Calvo was Guam’s third elected governor and served as governor from 1979 to 1982. He was also one of the founders of the Republican Party of Guam.
“It is with hearts full of love that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Paul McDonald Calvo, into the hands of our Lord on Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024, at the age of 90 years old. He was surrounded by his loving wife of 68 years, Rosa Baza Calvo, his eight children, many grandchildren, and great-grandchildren at his home in Maite,” a press release from Paul Calvo’s family stated.
Various leaders on Guam offered their condolences to the Calvo family and celebrated the late former governor’s legacy.
“On behalf of the people of Guam, we offer our deepest condolences to the family of Gov. Paul McDonald Calvo. As Guam’s third elected governor and a founding father of the Republican Party of Guam, Gov. Calvo’s leadership helped guide our island through crucial times. He pioneered the earliest and longest-lasting policies that set the course for our island’s future, and his experience and success as a businessman laid the groundwork for a strong government,” Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero stated in a release.
“Our hearts go out to the Calvo family during this time of great loss. Rosa Baza Calvo, their children, grandchildren, and extended family are in our prayers. Gov. Calvo’s contributions to our island will be remembered for generations, and we join the island in mourning his passing. May he rest in peace,” she added.
Lt. Gov. Josh Tenorio offered similar remarks, stating that Guam “lost a giant in our community.”
“Gov. Calvo’s efforts have led to significant improvements across the island, and he was well known and respected for his incredible generosity and dedication to the people of Guam,” Tenorio said.
Speaker Therese Terlaje and Vice Speaker Tina Muna Barnes also provided statements.
Barnes stated that Paul Calvo forever changed Guam’s history for the better, “especially because he encouraged his family to follow the example he set in government and in business.”
Terlaje said Paul Calvo was a dedicated leader who left “an indelible mark” on Guam.
“Gov. Calvo’s contributions to public service, his leadership in times of economic rebuilding, and his commitment to Republican politics as a senior statesman were pivotal to shaping the Guam we know today,” the speaker stated.
The Republican Party of Guam mourned Paul Calvo’s passing, stating that his legacy is one of tireless dedication to the people of Guam.
“As Guam’s third elected governor, the administration of Paul M. Calvo was marked by significant economic reforms and a focus on building a strong future for the people of Guam to include the founding of the Guam National Guard in 1981,” the party stated in a release.
Ginger Cruz, the Democratic candidate for Guam’s delegate seat, stated she was deeply saddened to hear of Paul Calvo’s death and also commended the late former governor for his commitment to Guam.
Current Guam Delegate James Moylan, who is seeking reelection on the Republican ticket, said Paul Calvo helped forge the island’s image as a business-friendly environment and that his death presented a great loss for Guam.
