Pacita Willis Cervantes was born on December 31, 1936, in Lepanto, Mankayan, Benguet, Philippines, to Willis and Esa Bongcalao. She was one of three children, the oldest, and sister to Persenia and Virginio.
Raised in a small town with humble beginnings, Pacita, as a child, helped her parents around the house and mountainside farm.
As a young lady, Pacita met her dear husband Juan, got married, and together they had 12 children: Erlinda, Presentacion, Celso, Rosalia, Francisco, Johnny, Shirley, Donald, Oliver, Jesusa, Bryan, and a beautiful boy they lost at birth.
Pacita will be remembered for being hardworking.
Juan and Pacita, along with seven of their children, immigrated to Canada in June of 1983 in pursuit of a life of broad opportunity for them and their children. Together, the family established a home in the city of Surrey, British Columbia, which she continued to reside in for 40 years. Pacita chose blueberry picking and the greenhouse as a means to support her family. You would find her conversing with the other workers, showing a genuine interest in their lives and their families. She spent many hours picking fruit and vegetables, often joined by the rest of her family, making days at the farm a familial affair. She loved her family deeply and took delight in caring for them.
Pacita will be remembered for her love of children—her own and many others.
Juan and Pacita were so proud of each of their children. She often cited that their efforts in their work or to be thrifty were to make sure their children could pursue an education or their career of choice. Affectionately known as "Lola," she was so loved by her 26 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. Pacita was someone many people trusted to take care of their own children. Her home was often filled with the energy of her grandchildren and other children of friends in the community.
Pacita will be remembered for her light-heartedness.
Whether that was reflected through her bright red, multi-patterned outfits or her efforts to tell jokes or sing songs, her joy was so evident in her spirit. You could find her walking around the neighborhood, stopping to say “hi” to those around her. It was rare to leave a visit with Pacita without reminiscing on a memory, receiving a piece of advice, or laughing with her. She is remembered by her children as a comforter, reminding them that “things will be okay.”.
Pacita peacefully passed away on April 15, 2024, at the age of 87, after enduring many health struggles. In her final days, she was known to be herself—deeply in love with her family and still trying to make you smile. She was generous in her joy, generous in her time, and generous in her love.
Mama, Lola, we will miss you forever.
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