Perfectacion "Fely" (Orillo) Johnson

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Perfectacion (Fely) Johnson. Fely was born in Leyte in the Philippines on January 28, 1933. She was predeceased by her loving husband, Lance Johnson, her parents Felomino Orillo and Catalina Boholst, her nine older brothers and sisters and her Siamese cat “Boo Boo”.

Fely grew up in Leyte and later in Davao, but moved to Manila as a young adult after completing a seamstress course. In the early 1960’s, Fely began working for the Westly family in Paranaque, Manila, and helped care for Marcia Westly’s young daughter, Erica. When the Westly family left the Philippines in 1965, Fely continued to work for another family in Manila, but eventually found her way to Greece, working in a hospital as a care aide for a few years. In 1974, Fely came to Vancouver to work again for Marcia, as a caregiver to “grandpa” and Erica, who by then was a young teen. In 1976 she began work as a care aide at the UBC Hospital. She met Lance during this time, and they married in November 1976. In 1979, Fely became a Canadian Citizen. She and Lance first lived in an apartment on Denman, where Fely won an award for the best balcony flower display. She always wanted a house of her own, and in 1985, she and Lance bought the house on Main Street, which she painted bright yellow soon thereafter. Fely loved to garden and anything she planted in the soil not only grew but flourished. She was famous for her beautiful roses and her giant persimmon tree in her front yard which grew from seeds she brought from the Philippines. Fely cherished the city of Vancouver deeply, often calling it one of the most beautiful places to live. It was her home for 51 years.

Fely’s niece Carlota Orillo, a care aide with Vancouver Coastal Health, has been the primary caregiver of her Yaya (Auntie) these past few years. As well, long-time friends Lilia Burrows and Elvira (Bing) Torreja helped Carlota greatly with Fely’s recent care – all with friendship, compassion and love. Fely never had any children of her own, but she often said that Carlota and Erica were like daughters to her.

Fely was a very independent woman who approached life with courage, kindness, and deep thoughtfulness. She had an unwavering love for her family and friends, always putting those she cared about at the heart of her world. She truly embraced life, filling it with laughter, unforgettable stories, and a great sense of humour that brought joy to those around her. Fely lived life to the fullest, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, strength, and love. She will be deeply missed.

A viewing will be held on Wednesday, July 9th from 5:00-7:00 pm, followed by a Reception with snacks and refreshments from 7:00-9:00 pm at Ocean View Funeral Home, 4000 Imperial Street, Burnaby, BC. A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, July 10th at 11:00 am at 480 E 47th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, with Father Reyes presiding, followed by an internment at Ocean View Funeral Home at 12:30 pm that same day. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Canadian Cancer Foundation. Condolences can be sent to www.oceanviewfuneral.com