Melba Abello Kimpo

Melba Abello Kimpo peacefully passed away at 98 years of age on May 20, 2020. She was born on October 27, 1921, in Numancia, Aklan, Philippines and was one of 7 children born to Privato and Ana Abello. She graduated from Emanuel Hospital School of Nursing in Roxas City and served as a Second Lieutenant and Registered Nurse in the Philippine Commonwealth Army/United States Army Forces in the Far East (USAFFE). Melba was stationed on the front line with the guerrilla forces and was ultimately awarded the prestigious Congressional Gold Medal for her bravery and service in World War II.

Following the war, Melba returned to Numancia where she met and became engaged to former Army Staff Sergeant, George Kimpo. On December 31, 1947, she arrived in San Francisco with the distinction of being the last G.I. Sweetheart under the G.I. Fiancée Act. George and Melba were married on March 29, 1948, in Astoria, Oregon and shortly thereafter moved to Delano, California where they raised four children and lived for over 54 years. On August 17, 1955, Melba proudly became a U.S. Naturalized Citizen.

Melba was the Director of Nursing at Delano Hospital and Delano Community Hospital for many years until her retirement in 1975. She was fondly referred to as “Kimpo”, the head nurse, small in stature but strong in stance. She was also a pioneer in the formation of the Filipino Community of Delano and an active member of the Filipino Women’s Club, Fil-Am, the Aklan Ati-Atihan Association, and the Numancia Aid Association. In 2002, she moved to the Los Angeles area to be closer to her grandchildren but regularly visited Delano to take part in her favorite late-night pastime, mahjong. A loyal “auntie” to many, her witty humor and continued service were recognized throughout her life, as she was also honored as Delano’s Grand Marshall of Philippine Weekend 2006.

Melba was the matriarch of the family and the center of it all. Her beautiful and amazing life will forever be cherished in the legacy of her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 54 years, George, her son, Anthony, and her 5 siblings. She is survived by her 3 daughters, Sally Ann (Eddy) Schiavon, Heddy (Gary) Hoopfer, and Diana Kimpo, her 10 grandchildren, Angela, Allison, Andrew, Cristine, David, Anthony James, Mark, Adrienne, Nicole, and Matthew, her 15 great grandchildren, her sister, Sofia, and several cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.delanomortuary.com for the Kimpo family. Services provided by Delano Mortuary, a Dignity Memorial provider.