Emerita R. Onia's Obituary
Emerita “Emy” Racho Onia - loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister and comadre, left this world on October 11, 2021 at the age of 76. She was born on October 22, 1944 in Alaminos, Pangasinan to Proceso Racho & Juanaria Sambrano. Emy graduated from the University of Pangasinan in 1969 with a degree in Education. It was also there that she met the love of her life, Hilarion Onia. They wed and soon Emerita embarked on the life of a Navy wife. They left the Philippines to immigrate to Hilarion’s first station Honolulu, Hawai'i. Together they have three children: Marie, Aileen and Oliver.
For most of her early married life, she was a doting stay at home mom. She worked for some time at Kyocera International during her children’s early years of school. When her granddaughters were born, she retired to become her most treasured role, Gramma Emy. She helped raise her granddaughters Mia Grace & Audrey Marie. She was an exceptional cook who was always busy preparing her kids & grandkids favorite dishes. The love she had for her family was unmatched. Her children & grandchildren always felt wrapped in her love and protection.
When her husband was weakened by his illnesses in their senior years, Emerita became the most resilient role of her being. She was a remarkable, devoted & selfless caregiver to Hilarion. It was through her support and devotion, did Hilarion thrive for many years. In the minimal spare time she had, she would be found in her garden tending to her many plants, orchids & fruit trees. She loved houseplants, enjoyed raising them and trading them between her friends. When Hilarion passed away – she maintained this love for plants and cherished the time she spent with her friends. She always spoke so highly of her friends in helping her with the loss of her love, Hilarion. She loved spending time with them and the conversations they shared.
She was preceded in death by her parents, grandson, husband and siblings: Irene and Teofilo.
She is survived by her children, granddaughters, and siblings: Marcelina, Norberto, Jesus, Teresa, Christina, Delia, Gerardo, Ernesto and Minda,
Emerita will be missed by her friends and family. May she rest in eternal peace with her love, Hilarion.
What’s your fondest memory of Emerita?
What’s a lesson you learned from Emerita?
Share a story where Emerita's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Emerita you’ll never forget.
How did Emerita make you smile?