Elvira Avena Marasigan

Elvira “Elvie” Avena Marasigan was born on September 19, 1946, in San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan, Philippines. She passed away peacefully on November 24, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of strength, love, and dedication to her family.

Elvie pursued a Bachelors of Science in Accountancy at the University of the East in Manila, Philippines, graduating in 1967. In 1968, she immigrated to the United States, living with her eldest sister and brother-in-law, Lita and Ben, in Southern California. She began her career as a bookkeeper commuting in LA traffic in her blue Ford Mustang.

In 1971, Elvie met Bernardino "Dino" Marasigan in Cerritos, California, where he was invited to her birthday party that her family was hosting. Despite playing hard to get and Dino lying about his age, Elvie said “I do” June 1, 1974. They welcomed their oldest child, Julie in 1976. In 1981, the family made the decision to leave Southern California for the fresh air of Oregon. They welcomed their youngest daughter, Jill in 1982. They built their dream home in Oregon City, Oregon. Elvie drew up the landscaping plans in her journal, bringing each idea to life one project at a time.

Elvie finished her career working at Pacific Northwest Generating Company in Portland, as a CPA for 15 years. Her work ethic and professionalism were widely respected. She chose to retire early at the age of 50, not only to help with the golf driving range family business, but more importantly to focus on the things she really loved like traveling and painting. Elvie also fulfilled her goal of building a home on the family property in the Philippines, surrounded by mango trees, a fish-shaped swimming pool, tilapia ponds, and her beloved butterfly garden. There, she found peace and joy in her surroundings.

Elvie was a woman of many interests and talents. She loved the beach, particularly one near a casino. She had a passion for painting and crafting. Elvie’s Pinterest boards were full of ideas she transformed into reality. She was particularly known for her origami-like folding techniques for everyday items like grocery bags, sweatshirts, and even underwear.

Throughout her life, Elvie showed immense love, care and wit for those around her, especially her grandchildren. Elvie's nurturing spirit extended beyond her family as she was known for her generosity and unwavering support for others. Her quiet, yet sharp sense of humor brought laughter to everyone she encountered. Her family, friends, and all who knew her admired her quiet strength and generous heart. She also had the ability to bring people together, most recently celebrating her and Dino’s 50th wedding anniversary in Palm Springs, California on the exact date, June 1, 2024.

Elvie is survived by her husband, Dino; her daughters Julie (John) and Jill (Brooks), and her beloved grandchildren Lola, Vienna, Sienna, and Rhiannon. She is also survived by her younger sister, Dr. Rebecca “Becky” Gonzales, and her children Chris (Devon) with grand nephews and niece Tristan, Maximo and Lilah, and Jenny (Behnu) with grand nephews and niece Leyla, Lucca and Lincoln. Additionally, she is survived by her youngest brother Gilbert Avena (Rochella) and his daughter Jasmine (Julio) and grand niece Milani. Elvie is also remembered by her nieces Joy Ferguson (Joe), Malou Avena, and nephew Eric Avena.

Elvie’s legacy of love, strength, and devotion to her family will live on through her children, grandchildren, and all those who had the privilege of knowing her.