Pacita Pio passed away peacefully on July 8, 2026 surrounded by family and friends. She was 77 years old.Born on August 4, 1948, in Sinait, Philippines, Pacita was the eldest daughter among eight siblings. She grew up in a small farming town, helping her family tend the rice fields while attending grade school. At just 13, she moved to Manila to pursue better opportunities. There she worked at Puyet Steel with her aunt, completed her education, and later earned a degree in Finance and Banking from the University of Santo Tomas. Her time in Manila included travels across the Philippines and to Japan, igniting a lifelong spirit of adventure.In 1974, at age 26, Pacita met Santiago, a U.S. Army veteran. Their union brought her first child into the world, and in 1978 the family immigrated to the United States. Settling first in the Central Valley, Pacita worked in the grape fields and at K-Mart while determined to build a better future. She enrolled in nursing school, earned her LVN degree from Porterville College while working two jobs, and later welcomed her daughter. For over a decade she cared for patients in Delano and Bakersfield hospitals, all while nurturing her family’s love for California road trips.In 1990, seeking new opportunities, Pacita moved the family to Victorville. She continued her nursing career at Victorville Hospital and later took on additional work at Loma Linda Veterans Hospital. During her years in Victorville, she made her longtime dream come true by traveling all over the world with her friends. She loved being a nurse and formed many cherished friendships through her dedication and compassionate care.Pacita’s adventurous heart, strong work ethic, and deep love for her family defined her life. She will be greatly missed by her children Arnel and Ruzziel Pio. Her grandchildren Joseph, Santiago, and Kailani. Siblings Cesar, Lito, Albert and Judy. and all whose lives she touched.
