Wednesday, December 26, 2018
Following is Eulogy written by Aldean and read by Marie during the Funeral Mass:
16 grandchildren, 7 children, 4 great grandchildren
Lola was an extremely thoughtful person. Whenever she called, her tone was sincere and warm. Never failed to ask what meals we had in a day. Always wanted to know how your gf’s or bf’s were doing and send them regards. Lola was a great cook. She always made delicious meals and sometimes made too much but with the intent for everyone to bring home as to not worry about food at their own homes.
When I was away at college I once called her for one of her recipes since I was craving a home cooked Filipino meal. I made it for me and my friends and it came out pretty comparable to how she made it. She actually found out it humorous that I was even attempting to make it. Maybe in her mind she was like this fool can’t do it like me. And she was probably right.
Lola was always physically active. She’d walk everywhere from church to the bank to the groceries with her iconic red shopping cart which in her later senior years she’d use as a walker. This worried us especially after Lolo passed since she was alone for a while and eyesight was poor, but she was an independent woman which I admired. I’d ask her if she’d done her daily morning exercises and she’d reply of course balong, that is from where I get my strength. I believe this is what kept Lola going for so long. Don’t be fooled by her fragile and tiny exterior; this woman was strong. She really impressed me with how low she was able to squat. Now, granted this is probably the national stance in the mean gritty streets of the Philippines but she was still doing this with ease just a few weeks ago at the home. She was organizing her clothes at the bottom drawer of her cabinet. You had to respect how organized she was with her belongings and how she liked to do things her way. She had no major illnesses besides her lack of vision. This in turn affected her cooking in a way. Everything still tasted amazing but let’s just say you’d find little hidden treasures along the way. Best tasting sticker labels I’ve ever had.
Lola had a great deal of concern for all her family. She was always worried about little things that were unnecessary. However, it was only out of the sweet kindness and goodness of her heart. A trait only the best mothers or grandmothers have. On top of that she was also a loving and caring wife. When lolo was sick, she was his sole caretaker before he was moved to rehab. She’d serve him food which she’d done all her life and clean up after him when he couldn’t make it to the bathroom. I felt sad for her at times because when I’d call to say hello and see how they were doing she’d mention that Lolo kept screaming at her despite her efforts. She’d say lakay please don’t yell at me I’m trying to help you. And she would continue to take care of him that way until his passing in 2012. I think it’s Safe to say lolo wasn’t the most easily pleased man but she stuck by his side until the end. That’s the kind of person she was. No matter what kind of reaction or response she’d get from anyone she’d continue to love and care for her family the best way she knew she could. She only wanted to help. I’d say She beautifully fulfilled all her wifely, motherly, grandmotherly duties.
We love you Lola. Rest In Peace
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