Lourdes Torio Balmilero

Lourdes Torio Balmilero, affectionately known as Lourding, Mom, Grams, and lovingly called our Queen Bee, was born on August 29, 1935, and passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family in her forever home in Kāneʻohe on December 3rd, 2025.

Originally from Santiago, Ilocos Sur, in the Philippines, Lourdes moved to Hawaiʻi at the age of 11 with her mother and siblings. The eldest of nine children, she worked on the plantations on O’ahu, where she met the love of her life, Catalino Reyes Balmilero (deceased August 9, 2010). The two married when she was 16 years old and built a partnership grounded in devotion, perseverance, and love.

Together, they raised their family in Kalihi and Kāneʻohe, eventually settling in Kāneʻohe, where they lived for the rest of their lives. Her greatest pride was her family. She was the devoted mother of six, grandmother to eleven, great-grandmother to thirteen, and great-great-grandmother to four—each generation a living reflection of her care, strength, and generosity. Lourdes was a writer, cook, seamstress, and worked in various professions, achieving excellence in whatever position she held. She also had a lifelong love of learning and curiosity, always eager to explore new interests—from crafting to studying law. No matter the role, she approached everything with intention and heart. Known as the center of the party, Lourdes loved being around people and had a rare gift for making everyone feel welcome. She enjoyed talking story, sharing her personal and family history, and proudly “showing off” her family to anyone who would listen. Her smile was contagious, her laughter unforgettable, and her warmth immediate. She loved openly and without expectations, with her greatest joy always came from her family.

In quieter moments, Lourdes found happiness tending to her fish pond and garden, especially her beloved orchids and roses. Family trips to Las Vegas were among her favorite traditions. Her final trip, taken in 2025 to celebrate her 90th birthday, was especially meaningful, filled with family, laughter, and time spent playing her favorite slot machine—“Da Buffalo.”

Lourdes is survived by her six children, her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, all of whom were the center of her world.

Lourdes Torio Balmilero will be remembered for her vibrant spirit, her generous heart, her love of people, and the extraordinary family she and Catalino built and nurtured. This legacy will continue for generations.

Visitation will be held on January 13, 2026, at 11:00 am at the Hawaiian Memorial Park Chapel, located at 45-425 Kamehameha Highway in Kaneohe. The funeral service will follow at 11:45 am at the same location.

The Family Of Lourdes Balmilero

Husband

Catalino Reyes Balmilero (deceased)

Children

Catalino “Cisco” Balmilero (DonnaLynne)

Marcellus Roy “Leo” Balmilero (Joji)

Nathaniel “Sandy” Balmilero

Renato “Welby” Balmilero (Merle)

Lounalyn “Risa” Myers (Adam)

Selwyn “Terry” Balmilero

Grandchildren

Benjamin Balmilero

Eric Balmilero (Brandee)

Kimberly Balmilero (John)

Stacie Rosa (Kaikala)

Ian Balmilero (Kelsey)

Jason Balmilero (Kalena)

Sheena Myers (Felipe)