Rosario "Chato" Haraldson

Born in Mabalacat, Pampanga, Philippines, Chato carried with her a love for learning, creativity, and adventure throughout her life. After earning a degree in history in the Philippines, she went on to teach both there and later in California, where she completed her teaching certificate at San Jose State University. She taught middle school history for a time in Salinas, California.

In the 1980s, Chato combined her love for design and her entrepreneurial spirit to open a popular bridal shop on Cannery Row in Monterey, CA. A talented seamstress, her boutique became a special destination for brides-to-be, and a reflection of her skill and style. She proudly ran the shop for a decade before moving to Texas with her husband, daughter, and son.

She was the devoted wife of Gary Haraldson, a veteran of both the U.S. Army and Navy, who preceded her in death. Together, they lived in Salinas, California; San Antonio, Texas; and even spent time in Vicenza, Italy, traveling throughout Europe. Chato loved to explore, often taking road trips across the U.S., camera in hand. Photography, music, and gardening became lifelong passions—she especially adored The Beatles, Eric Clapton, James Taylor, and Tina Turner.

In her later years, Chato could often be found in her garden or helping her friends tend to theirs. Her green thumb, generous heart, and beautiful smile brightened the lives of those around her. She built lasting friendships with her neighbors and showed her love in the small acts of kindness she offered every day.

Chato is survived by her daughter, Lorirose Belton; her son, Ira Haraldson; her granddaughters, Rose Belton and Evalyt Howton; her brother, Reynaldo Alejandro (Virginia); her sisters, Honorata “Nora” Policarpio (Fred), Aurora Capingian (August), and Irene Holcomb; her brother, Marcelino Alejandro (Daisy); her sisters-in-law, Loring Alejandro, Jeana Grandors (John), and Ginny Haraldson; and her brother-in-law, Dennis Haraldson. She is also lovingly remembered by her cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Gary Haraldson; her parents, Constante and Rosalina Alejandro; her brothers, Antonio and Angelito Alejandro; her brother-in-law, Alan Haraldson; and her parents-in-law, Lorraine and Alvin Haraldson.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Chato’s life during a funeral viewing on March 27th from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., and a funeral service on March 28th from 11:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. at the Chapel of Greenwood Memorial Park and Funeral Home, located at 350 Monroe Ave NE, Renton, WA 98056. A reception will follow; details will be available at the service.

Chato’s love, laughter, and unwavering kindness will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the many lives she touched.