Hilaria Hilario Dancel

March 16, 1928 – May 26th, 2023

Hilaria “Laling” Dancel was born in San Jose, Mayantoc Tarlac, Philippines. Her Father was Martin Hilario and her Mother was Rufina Samortin. She was the only child. Her Mother died when she was only 14 years old and her Father left for Kauai to work when she was only 3 months old and he passed away in 1963.

Laling’s highest education was High School and didn’t get to attend college because of the Japanese War. Her favorite subject was math and she loved to dance.

Laling met her husband Jaime Dancel in 1942 when she was in her 1st year of High School at the boarding school where they both attended. Laling said that Jaime was very kind. She said they had no first date. They just got married. Jaime’s parents asked her mother’s brother Felipe Samortin several times if they could get married, and on the 5th request, Felipe finally agreed.

Laling stated that there were lots of people at their wedding and her father in-law Basilio paid for the wedding. Laling said Jaime’s family had a lot of land, but she had more land.

One of the biggest struggles they overcame together was when she had cancer at the age of 25. She nearly died, but Jaime’s love and care healed her back to life.

Laling and Jaime had 3 kids together.

Best Family Vacation:

Going to Casinos and Washington, D.C.

Places Travelled:

Cancun, Hawaii, London, LA, Mexico and of course back to Philippines several times.

Biggest Accomplishment:

Running a successful rice business with husband Jaime, paying for kid’s college tuition and leaving land for the children to inherit.

Favorite Thing To Do:

Attend church every Sunday with Grandchildren

Favorite Food:

Lechon and anything with veggies

Favorite Fruits:

Apples, grapes & oranges

Favorite Color:

Red

Favorite Drink:

Water

Favorite Hobby:

Puzzles

Favorite Flower:

Sampagita

On May 26th 2023, Laling passed away peacefully at Mission De La Casa Nursing home, leaving behind a legacy of 3 children, 7 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and a great-great grand daughter! Laling served as everyone’s Grandmother to those around her. Her love and presence will be profoundly missed.