Obituary of Pacita Ritutal

Pacita Salazar Ritutal went to be with the Lord Jesus in the early morning hours of Saturday, October 3, 2020. She was 90 years old.

Pacita, also known as Pacing, was born in San Juan La Union, Philippines on June 7, 1930. She was the only child of Luis Salazar and Catalina Gaerlan. At a young age, she lived during a tumultuous time with the Japanese invasion and the American occupation of the island.  Pacita lost her father at a young age. She was an exceptional student who excelled in logic, math and science. However, during her studies in Far Eastern University, her mother fell ill and died, forcing her to abandon her studies. To almost everyone who has known her, Pacita was better known as ‘Nanay’– meaning ‘Mother.’ She was a mother to family, neighbors and the community, nurturing and caring for all who spent time around her. 

Nanay’s interests varied for she was gifted in many ways.  In addition to being an excellent caregiver she owned goats, raised chickens, loved to garden, was a talented seamstress, experienced cook, and small business owner who provided for the community. 

She emigrated to the United States in the 1980s and married Diego Ritutal (d.1991), a farmer in California’s Central Valley. At an age when many people think about retiring, Pacita took up a career as a nurse assistant, caring for the elderly and disabled well into her eighth decade.

She enjoyed spending time with her family and was a giver to many, a firm believer in God her faith carried her through the many storms of life and to her ultimate victory. Among the many who love and have been blessed by her:  Children: Melinda Sun (d. 2020) & Tonglin ‘Nathan’ Sun; Roderick and Cecille Villanueva; Maritess and Rick Mayer Grandchildren: Niki Santo; Jasmine & Phillip Baten; Irene & Brian Norville; Chase Mayer; Brandon Mayer; Joram and Jenny Villanueva; Tim and Janine Vazquez; Jorel Villanueva; Great Grandchildren: Jubilee, Jeremiah.

Funeral Service will be privately held at the John F. Tierney Funeral Home on October 17th at 11:00 a.m.