Maria Soto Pingul's Obituary
On October 25, 1921, Castor and Lucia Lugue Soto welcomed Maria Soto into this world. She was raised in Bacolor Philippines and graduated from National University Quezon College where she began her career as a teacher. Then on November 4, 1956 she switched professions and became a full-time wife to Graciano Pingul, who was widowed, homemaker and mother, raising Isabelle, Norie, Reynaldo, Ellen and Graciano Jr.
Being a military wife, they would often relocate. While stationed in Hawaii mom gave birth to Dennis and Edwin. Later they were stationed in Washington State (Fort Lewis) where they established roots and where Glenn and Russell were born.
Mom was a very supportive spouse helping dad grow a Filipino community organization in Pierce County. They would help Filipino transplants transition to the area and guide them in utilizing the many federal, state, county and local resources. Together they worked to network with other organizations in the Puget Sound Area.
Vivid memories that stand out with our mom was her devotion to her Catholic faith. We became members of St. Francis Cabrini Church and Parish involving ourselves in the many church activities and school programs. If my mom’s faith was her soul, then her heart was her family and friends. Mom loved visits from family and friends. She would bake up some empanadas or cook up a meal and make sure everyone ate. She especially loved the holidays and special family occasions. As we grew older and moved away, these special times would bring us back together. You could count on her to make her chicken adobo for all the events. After Graciano passed away, and as our Pingul clan became too big, mom would bring us all together by hosting Caribbean cruises to ensure the “Family” remained close. When aging and her dementia started to leave its mark on mom and traveling was no longer an option, she enjoyed quiet visits from family and friends. Her face would light up whenever she saw her grandchildren.
Our last memory of mom was her love for Bingo and game shows. Even though her hearing was impaired because of the bombings during the war, she did quite well. Of all the game shows mom would watch, her favorite was The Price is Right. You’ve heard of armchair quarterbacks, well she was an armchair gameshow quarterback. She would often question a contestant’s answer or choice and shake her head in disapproval. I recall her saying at times that she wanted to go down to Burbank and compete herself.
Maria Pingul joined our family in Heaven on November 29, 2025, after 104 years living a full life. She is reunited with husband Graciano Sr., children Norie (Carling) Ramirez, Reynaldo (Eloise), Edwin (Geri) and Russell. She leaves behind Isabelle (Leoncio, d.)DeLeon , Ellen (Ato, d.)Donato, Graciano Jr. (Katie), Dennis (Lori), Glenn (Dana), 19 grandchildren, 32 great grandchildren and 14 great, great grandchildren.
The siblings would like to acknowledge the sacrifice of our Bro. Ben (Graciano Jr.) and wife Katie who moved in with mom, to take care of her, when she could no longer live independently.
The family would like to express their sincere thanks to Chris, Leony and De De who provided respite care for mom, my brother and sister. We also want to give our heartfelt thanks to Sylvia and the caring and loving staff at Sylvia’s Place for the wonderful care they provided Maria when living at home was no longer an option.
Mom, you are in a happier place now. We will miss you dearly, but we will cherish all the memories you gave us.
Viewing will be held at Mountain View Memorial Park in the Pine/Oak room from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM January 14 and 15.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Francs Cabrini Parish, 5707 108th St. SW Lakewood WA, on Friday, January 16 at 11:00 AM with internment to follow at Mountain View Memorial Park, 4100 Steilacoom Blvd. SW Lakewood WA. Following the internment a celebration of Maria’s life and sharing of fond memories will be held in the willow room at the Celebration of Life Building.
What’s your fondest memory of Maria?
What’s a lesson you learned from Maria?
Share a story where Maria's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Maria you’ll never forget.
How did Maria make you smile?