Lapaz Reyes Knudsen's Obituary
A CELEBRATION OF LIFE
FOR
LAPAZ R. KNUDSEN “PAT”
May 12, 1931 – December 3, 2022
Beloved wife and mother, grandmother and friend, Lapaz R. Knudsen, passed away peacefully on December 3rd, 2022 surrounded by her family.
Lapaz was born in Manila, Philippines on May 12, 1931.
Lapaz was working in San Francisco, CA where she met the love of her life, Lorens Jr. (“Larry”) of Correctionville, IA. They were married on June 3, 1957.
They made a home and family in San Francisco where Lorens III was born, moved to the Philippines where Shirley was born, returned to San Francisco, moved cross country to Virginia where William was born, back to the Philippines and eventually settled in San Diego where they have lived since 1969.
Lapaz led a very active lifestyle including: active devotee and previous Eucharistic Minister of the Catholic Church, Cursillista, sponsoring the Santo Nino celebration, helping run the weekly Bingo fundraiser, helping feed the homeless each week and memberships in various Filipino-American organizations.
Lapaz especially enjoyed being outdoors tending to her garden and fruit trees.
She and Larry loved to dance together. They also loved to travel. The Philippines was one of their favorite destinations. They also traveled to China, Italy, England, greater Europe, Russia, the Caribbean, Alaska and the Mediterranean and throughout the United States.
Lapaz loved her family and friends and leaves behind many wonderful memories for all of us.
Lapaz is survived by: her three children and their spouses Lorens J. Knudsen III (Kathy), Shirley Kenson (Stu), William A. Knudsen Sr. (Sue); her grandchildren Alana Bales (Garrett), Lorens J. Knudsen IV (Kacey), Lauren Kenson (Billy DeKom), Megan Kenson (Codie Davis), Anastacia Knudsen, William A. Knudsen, Jr. (Kayla); her great grandchildren Bryce Bales, Blake Bales, Lorens J. Knudsen V, Cooper Knudsen; sister-in-law Cresing Mueca, nephews Marcos Mueca (Anita), Gilbert Mueca (Cheryl), Michael Mueca; many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends both here in the U.S. and the Philippines.
She is preceded in death by her husband Lorens J. Knudsen, Jr.; her son Jesse Knudsen; her parents (Alberto Mueca and Felipa Reyes); her in-laws (Lorens J. Knudsen, Sr. and Margaret); her brother Gregorio Mueca.
Lapaz “Mom” “Grandma” “Ma” “Auntie” “Pat” “Pacing” will be missed by all who loved and knew her.
A viewing and vigil will be held at Greenwood Memorial Park from 5-9pm on Wednesday, January 11, 2023 including a Rosary at 7pm. A memorial mass will be held at The Church of the Most Precious Blood at 10am on Thursday, January 12, 2023 followed by interment at Greenwood Memorial Park.
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