Lydia was born on February 17, 1946 to Paul Laruya Ramirez and Librada Centeno Ramirez in Pulungbulu, Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines. Lydia attended Republic Central Colleges (RCC) and was passionate about education. She obtained a Bachelors of Education and served her community as a fifth-grade school teacher at Malabanias Elementary School.
She met the love of her life and college sweetheart, Jose Nuguid Lalic, at RCC. They were married for 27 years from 1965 until Jose’s death in 1992. During the first five years of their marriage, the couple welcomed three children into their home. She was a kind and loving mother who encouraged them to pursue their goals. She was an excellent cook specializing in Pampanga Filipino foods like pancit and lumpia. She loved to sing and dance the tango with Jose. Her admiration for her children and grandchildren always showed in the way she would talk about them.
In 1973, she immigrated to Portland, Oregon from the Philippines. She established herself by working at Holiday Park Hospital in the housekeeping department. She ultimately left the position to work for Safeco Insurance as an insurance clerk. In 1974, her family were able to join her in Portland. They established a life across the street from St. Andrews School and Catholic Church in northeast Portland.
Lydia was a long time member of the St. Andrews Catholic Church. She administered the sacraments of holy communion as a Eucharistic Minister. During Easter Vigil, Lydia along with family members would grace the church floor with a performance of the Pandanggo sa Illaw (candle dance).
Lydia was an active and dedicated member of Aguman Capampangan Northwest USA. She was one of the founding members of this social organization and served in the capacity of vice president and secretary. She enjoyed annual Christmas caroling, luaus, Santa Cruzan, and picnics. Lydia’s most memorable experience with Aguman was when she participated on a Medical and Dental mission in the Philippines where she helped serve the poor. She was passionate on helping others.
Lydia met her partner in 1997, Julian Anderson, while working at Safeco Insurance. He has been there for support and companionship.
Lydia will truly be missed for her sweet and caring nature. Her legacy will continue through her three children: Joy Lalic Chang (Mark), Peter Paul Lalic (Janelle), and Cleto Lalic (Gladys); grandchildren, Nathan, Audrey, Lindsay, Kayla, Jayson, Devin, and Luke; siblings Paul, Danny, Dixie, Alex, Joe, Crisa and Andy; partner Julian. She is preceded in death by her husband Jose Nuguid Lalic; parents Paul and Librada; and three siblings Elizabeth Palomo, Bernard and Fidel Ramirez.
Lydia’s Prayer for the family:
May my family be protected from misfortune and sadness. May we enjoy the privilege of spending time together to share joy and to be there for each other where there is need for comfort. May good health prevail and may there be faith in God’s mercy and grace. Amen.
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