December 16, 1932 – August 1, 2020
Catherine passed peacefully in her sleep, at home on August 1, 2020. She had lived a long life that included single minded commitment to those she loved, and dedicated service to her faith and parish family.
Catherine was born on December 16, 1932, in the family home in Bombon, Magarao, Camarines Sur, Philippines. She was the third child of her parents Panfilo and Inocencia Robles. Her siblings included sisters Eliodora, Lilia, and Dolores, and brothers Antonio and Santiago. Growing up in Naga City, she enjoyed reading, cooking, crocheting, and weaving. And she was an avid learner, completing her four-year course in just three. She went on to earn a Masters of Arts in Education, cum laude, from Far Eastern University in Manila, and then taught home economics in Camarines Sur, Philippines for about 13 years.
Catherine moved to Seattle, Washington in 1971, looking for adventure. Here, she met Robert Tirao, the father of four children, Linda, Robert Jr. (Bob), Christopher, and Marilyn. Catherine married Robert on December 26, 1971, in St. Mary’s Church in Seattle, and moved to Bremerton. They later welcomed their daughter Agnes on December 21, 1972. Agnes went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Engineering degree from the University of Washington. Catherine was very proud of Agnes’ accomplishments, including obtaining her engineering degree, professional license, and becoming a manager at her consulting firm.
Catherine, known to some as Cathy, Nanay, Manang, .. was dedicated to the Catholic Church, a parishioner of Our Lady Star of the Sea Parish for almost 50 years. She was a founding member of the San Lorenzo Guild and the Filipino Council for Pastoral Affairs and an essential member of the Rosary Makers. She, along with Dr. Telly Muldong, was always available to invite people to the church and to be of service in any way. She believed that when you commit to do something, you give it 100 percent, including coordinating Simbang Gabi celebrations in the Puget Sound area. She always paid attention to the details and wanted to include everyone in successes. She also enjoyed traveling on various pilgrimages (Jerusalem, Vatican City) and attending conferences around the country, representing Our Lady Star of the Sea and the San Lorenzo Guild.
As a wife and mother, Catherine prided herself on cooking delicious and healthy meals for the family. The family certainly benefited from her home economics education! No one would go hungry and there was always enough for seconds as well as something to take home. This approach translated to her time with the San Lorenzo Guild. Catherine was central in preparing and sharing food to nurture others and to encourage fellowship. If she was near, people would not go hungry.
Catherine is survived by her daughter Agnes and some-day son Brian, her sisters Lilia and Dolores, sons and daughters-in-law, including Bob and Pam, and several nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews.
Due to the Washington State COVID restrictions, the services for Catherine will be limited. The family is working to livestream the service on YouTube or another platform. Thank you in advance for your understanding.
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