Erlinda B. Bigornia

Erlinda was born on July 21, 1924 in Agno Pangasinan, Philippines. She was the baby of the family. At age 1, her father died. Raised by her mother, she learned all about hard work, strength, and determination. The latter often put her at odds with her mother, especially when she decided to pursue an education. Eventually, her mother relented, allowing her to go to school in the city. Upon finishing college, she worked briefly, which is where she met her husband-to-be, Anacleto Bigornia. The two married on May 16, 1953. She stopped working to raise their three children and perfect her cooking. Anacleto came to the United States in the late 1960s, and the rest of the family followed in 1971. They settled in Palo Alto, CA, before moving to Santa Clara. In the mid-70s, she started working at the Assessor’s Office in Santa Clara County, where she made many lasting friendships. She remained there until her retirement 22 years later. Erlinda loved gardening, cooking, spending time with friends and family. She always made the effort to keep in touch with everyone, and especially enjoyed visits from her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She and Anacleto were married for 53 years, and they traveled around with family and extended family in tow until his passing in 2006. She passed peacefully on June 9, 2014, surrounded by family. She is survived by her sister, Pat; son, Renato (Maria Geraldine), daughters, Meg (Tony) and Anneli (Christopher); grandchildren: Charae, Carmen (Ruben), Rene, Rayne, Amanda, Katie, Gregory, Jordan, and Adam; great-grandchildren: Alanah, Taylor, Kiana, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Avina, RJ, Ariana, Rhylan, Annabell, and baby girl. Erlinda lived a full life. She was well-loved and will be greatly missed. Visitation will be held on Sunday, June 15, 2014 from 4-8PM with Rosary at 6PM at Lima Family Santa Clara, 466 N. Winchester Blvd., Santa Clara, CA 95050. Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, June 16, 2014 at 10AM at St. Clare Parish, 941 Lexington St., Santa Clara, CA 95050. Interment to follow in Santa Clara Mission Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to Hospice of the Valley or American Lung Association.