Marcelina Tumaneng Rapues' Obituary
Marcelina Rapues Obituary
Marcelina Tumaneng Rapues, affectionately known as Cely or Cilling, died of end stage renal failure and other complications on June 5, 2024.
Born on August 3, 1936 in Dingras, Ilocos Norte, Philippines, mom was the beloved daughter of Paulino Tumaneng and Maria Andres. Cely and her siblings were orphaned at a very young age and was then raised by her maternal grandmother and paternal aunts along with her older sister Puring, (d) older brother Ramon and younger sisters Adelaida (d) and Marilyn (d). Mom’s early life was marked by familial love and resilience.
Mom graduated as a midwife but her path took a romantic turn when she met Marcelino Rapues, a Filipino-American and her fervent pen pal. They corresponded for a long time until sight unseen, Marcy proposed. He flew to the Philippines and they wed on December 24, 1961.
Cely and Marcy raised 4 children: Marlene (Maria Elena), Shirley, Neil and Jimmy. She is also survived by 2 grandchildren: Christopher and Sarah, as well as her nephews Noel, Rodel, Ritchie and Rommel (d) and nieces Annette and Rena, along with many others on both sides of the Rapues-Tumaneng ohana, all of whom cherish her memory.
Until her retirement in 1998, Mom worked at Dole Cannery where she forged a lot of friendships. Known for her exceptional gardening skills, she nurtured not only plants but also relationships within her community. Her generosity extended beyond her garden. She was a pillar of support for her family, advocating for education and offering assistance whenever needed. Many who benefited from her generosity have moved on from being college-educated professionals who are, in turn, helping elevate the circumstances of their own families. She also opened up her home in the Philippines to all especially those traveling or returning overseas.
Faith played a central role in Mom's life, and in her later years, she found solace in the broadcasts of the Catholic TV station EWTN for daily mass and rosary. Her legacy is one of unwavering faith, love for family, and the joy of a life well-lived. Mom's spirit continues to inspire all who knew her, and her memory will be treasured forever.
On behalf of our entire family, THANK YOU for the love and support you have shown her (and us) but most especially for joining us in the CELEBRATION of the life of our beloved mom, sister, aunt, cousin and friend, MARCELINA T. RAPUES.
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