Erlinda Frias Bautista

On Tuesday, October 24th, 2023, Erlinda Frias Bautista passed away peacefully after a brief hospital stay. Erlinda was born on May 26th, 1938, to loving parents in Bauang, Philippines. Upon earning her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Christ the King College San Fernando-La Union in 1960, she embarked on her teaching journey. Her career began at the Saint Louis school in Baguio City, where she dedicated herself to educating elementary school students for over 4 years.

In November 1964, she married her dear husband, Ponciano, who was a respected serviceman of the United States Coast Guard. Their military life commenced a journey of relocation, beginning with a move from the Philippines to Honolulu, Hawaii in August 1965. The call of duty led them across various states, including California, before they finally laid down roots in Renton, Washington in 1978. Throughout these transitions, Erlinda remained committed to her passion for education, continuing to teach and volunteer at local elementary schools. After dedicating several years to the field of education, Erlinda embraced a career transition, stepping into the role of a retail associate. She retired in 1998.

Throughout their military life, they raised two children, Gerard and Ponciano Jr. (their third child, Rex, passed away at birth). Ponciano Sr.'s duties often took him to sea for extended periods on Coast Guard missions, leaving Erlinda to single-handedly manage the upbringing of their two sons. Through her enduring spirit, she guided her children to be resilient, compassionate, and instilled a strong work ethic underscoring the value of an education. Her guidance was instrumental in molding them into accomplished individuals in their respective fields.

Erlinda reveled in the creative artistry of scrapbooking, found joy in amassing a collection of novelty toys, occasionally indulged in the thrill of travel, and savored the delights of specialty foods. Yet, her deepest passion was the cherished time spent with her grandchildren, Ryan, Liana, Logan, and Nathan. She took immense pleasure in nurturing their growth, constantly encouraging them to realize their full potential. Their milestones, as they blossomed into young adults, were a source of immense pride for her, often becoming the highlight of her conversations with others.

In their later years, Erlinda and Ponciano, Sr. continued to be dedicated to one another. Their bond grew stronger, and they were each other’s rock during difficult times and the source of countless joyous moments throughout their 59-year marriage.

Erlinda will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy will live on through the lives she touched with her kindness and the love she shared with her family. Erlinda is preceded in death by her sons Gerard (Elaine) and Rex. Erlinda is survived by her loving husband, Ponciano Bautista, Sr., her son Ponciano Bautista, Jr. and wife Aileen Bautista, and their two sons, Logan, and Nathan; Elaine Rabang Bautista (daughter in law) and her two children Ryan and Liana as well as numerous other relatives.