Josefina Apongol Velasquez's Obituary
In loving Memory of Josefina “Josie” Apongol Velasquez.
Josefina, known as “Pinky” to those closest to her, was the third of ten siblings, born on May 19, 1934 in Milaor, Camarines Sur, Philippines to Isidoro Apongol and Consorcia Perez Apongol.
She met the love of her life, Leonardo “Nor” Velasquez (d. 1998), in Camarines Sur while he worked as a land surveyor. The pair were married in Bacoor, Cavite in May of 1955 and went on to have 6 children together. While Leonardo was serving at the Alameda Naval base in Alameda, CA, Josefina and her young family moved to the United States in May 1971, residing at the naval base before ultimately planting roots firmly in Fremont, CA.
From the family home, lovingly referred to as “Mama’s House,” Josie was the quintessential hostess. For decades, Mama’s House would be the center of celebrations, big and small, Holidays, get-togethers, mahjong games, and card playing nights. She loved hosting friends and family; and any time you visited, you could expect a warm welcome, days filled with laughter, and, most importantly, a full belly.
In addition to her domestic life, Josie travelled extensively, having visited most of Asia, Europe, and the Holy Land. She remained an active member of both the Fil-Am vets and Bacoorean Association, a group co-founded by her husband, Nor; and she was proud to continue his legacy.
Josie was known for her impeccable style and taste. She was a strong, outspoken woman with a heart full of love and compassion. She had an unwavering devotion to her family, which became the blueprint that guided them in caring and loving one another. Each family tie carries Josie’s love, and it will continue on with each generation. Josie was also steadfast in her faith, which was something she wanted to instill in all of her children and grandchildren.
Josefina was called home to be with the Lord on May 10, 2024. She passed peacefully, surrounded by family, in Fremont, CA.
She is survived by Jessica Ballesteros (her husband, Fred; and daughter, Catherine), Norfina Green (her husband, David; son, Matthew; daughter-in-law, Jhanice; and granddaughter Maisyn), Leo Velasquez (his wife, Patricia; son, Christian; son-in-law, Cesar; sons, Christopher and Chad; and daughter, Chloe), Velna Ruiz (her husband, COL(R) Benigno; daughter, Tiffany; son-in-law, Eric; son, Justin; daughter-in-law, Rachelle; and grandchildren, Julian, Maddie, Jackson, Miles, and Ella), Aaron Velasquez (his wife, Maria Charina), and Joper Velasquez (his wife, Stephanie; and daughter, Gabriella).
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