Esperanza Cristobal Secretario's Obituary
Esperanza Cristobal Secretario passed away peacefully September 5, 2021 at the age of 92.
Known affectionately as Espie, she was born November 16, 1928 in Laoag, Ilocos Norte, Philippines, and came to the US in 1955 as a student with dreams to teach. She was married to her loving and caring husband, Magdaleno for 66 years
She was a pioneer being the first to get an education and become a teacher on both sides of her family, often finding herself the only Filipina teacher in her early days. She and her friends were founding members of a generation of immigrant families who created and built their local community, a life in America, their adopted homes. She was always involved with her dear friends, many were teachers, giving back to their communities as well as gathering over potlucks and parties. We Filipinos don’t need much of an excuse to have a party.
She was inspired by and helped by a family member who supported her education and dreams. She paid this forward with her support to other family members over many years. She loved education as a way of serving others achieve their dreams and taught in the Philippines, Europe, and in the US where she retired from the Clover Park School District in Lakewood to enjoy her family, home, garden and travels.
She is survived by her beloved husband, Magdaleno, her children, Mag Jr. (Adriana), Clarissa Fruci (Len), Myrna and Anthony (Stephanie) and her loving grandchildren Christopher, Jordan, Alex, Kai and Keira and stepson, Shanti.
Please join us to celebrate her life.
A Rosary begins at 10:30 with the Mass to follow at 11am this Friday, September 17, 2021 at St Francis Cabrini Parish which will also be broadcast live via webcast. More information can be found here:
http://webcast.funeralvue.com/events/viewer/60309/hash:AFC6A7C62AE6B855
What’s your fondest memory of Esperanza?
What’s a lesson you learned from Esperanza?
Share a story where Esperanza's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Esperanza you’ll never forget.
How did Esperanza make you smile?