On June 4th, 2021, Belen Alvarez Justiniano, loving wife and mother, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family at the age of 82. Belen was born on January 23, 1939 in Manila, Philippines. She earned her degree in social work at the University of Santo Tomas. She began working as a social worker and helped children at a cerebral palsy clinic supporting their physical rehabilitation. While working at this clinic, she met her soon-to-be husband, Ernesto Justiniano. On September 25th, 1966, friends and family gathered to celebrate Ernesto and Belen’s wedding. In June 1969, they made a huge decision to move to the United States to begin a new life in San Diego. Together, with over 54 years of marriage, they raised three children: Patrick, Michelle, and Jonna.
Belen lived her life as a devout Catholic. She took pride in managing and creating a beautiful home. She was generous in nature and always made sure that everyone that stepped foot into her home felt welcomed. She was a kind, sweet, and loyal friend to all that knew her, and many of her friendships lasted a lifetime. Belen will also be remembered for her caring nature. She raised her three children with that care and love, however, her love of children did not end there. Between extended family and neighborhood kids, Belen helped care for nearly 50 other children over her lifetime. Later in life she had the pleasure of traveling the world and visiting dozens of countries with her family and lifelong friends. Always caring and generous, she relished the experiences they shared together on their adventures across the globe.
She is survived by her husband, Ernesto; son, Patrick; daughter, Michelle and her husband Michael and daughter, Jonna and her partner Mark. Belen was preceded in death by her father, Mamerto; mother, Natividad; and sister, Aida.
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