Eleanor Abarca Rivera

1943 - 2010

Eleanor Abarca Rivera obituary, 1943-2010, Sacramento, CA

Eleanor Abarca Rivera

1943 - 2010

BORN

1943

DIED

2010

Eleanor Rivera Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Mar. 16, 2010.
We regret to inform you that Eleanor A. Rivera "Mommy Nory" passed away last Sunday, March 14, 2010 at approximately 5:17 am (pdst). She suffered from end stage renal disease (kidney failure) and underwent dialysis treatment for over three years. She also overcame major surgery two years ago to remove a malignant tumor (liposarcoma) on her chest. Although the last four years were challenging, she spent several birthdays, Thanksgivings, Christmases and other significant events surrounded by her friends and family. Her condition worsened at the beginning of the month and she died peacefully in the hospital with her family holding her to the very end.

You will be happy to hear that her life, notably her last years, were full of joy and laughter, even taking a trip to her home country the Philippines, to visit with friends and relatives three months ago.

Eleanor's funeral services are now completed in the United States. Thank you for your kindness, generosity, support and sympathy.

Her remains will be flown back to the Philippines and there will be a public viewing of her remains at Sanctuarium Funeral Home from April 1, 2010 (Thursday) to April 3, 2010 (Saturday). Her memorial service will be held on April 3, 2010 (Saturday).

Sanctuarium Funeral Home
739 Gregorio. Araneta Avenue corner Agno Extension
Brgy Tatalon, 1113 PHILIPPINES

Tel: (02) 415- 2255 or 02) 711- 2255 or (02) 416- 2255

http://www.sanctuarium.net/index.html

Due to the numerous inquiries we received, flowers may be sent to Sanctuarium Funeral Home, 739 Gregorio Araneta Avenue corner Agno Extension Quezon City Philippines on or before April 3, 2010. Donations may be made to Rosan Araza or Eleanor Rivera. We appreciate your generosity and kindness.

I'm so sorry to have to bring you this sad news and we look forward to sharing our fond memories of Eleanor "Mommy Nory" with you. If you need any further information about the funeral services in Sacramento or Manila, or would like to share your thoughts of Mommy Nory, please don't hesitate to email us at [email protected] or by calling us at (916) 267-8885.


Eleanor Abarca Rivera was loved and cared for by many people. Her warm heart and amiable personality captured many hearts.

Nory was born and raised in Manila, Philippines. Loving parents Guillermo and Alejandra Abarca instilled in her many admirable qualities that she carried with her throughout her life. They taught her to be reliable and respectful. As a child she enjoyed making people happy and found it easy to show sympathy and perform acts of kindness towards others.

Nory had an older sister, Priscilla. She and her sister had the typical rivalries while growing up, but they supported one another As a adults they lived far apart, but the distance did not break their bond as sisters.

As a young girl, Nory had a number of interests and was active. One of her favorite games growing up was hopscotch. Later on she took an interest in badminton. She graduated from High School at the Philippine College of Commerce in 1960. One of her favorite classes was Stenography and the teacher she learned the most from was Mr. San Pedro. As an avid singer she was a member of the Glee Club.

Nory was a faithful and loving person. She can be described as sentimental and romantic. On April 20, 1963 Nory married Alexis Rivera at Paco Catholic Church in Manila, Philippines. Compassionate and devoted, Nory worked hard to care for and keep her life partner happy.

Family was the priority for Nory, and it was important for her to keep her family together. She was blessed with four children; three daughters, Elgin, Rosan and Aura and a son, Roland "Rolex". Fortune smiled upon her once again with four grandchildren, Adrian, Adam, Aurelle and Rachelle.

Nory was always conscious of the feelings others had. She was reasonable and understanding. As a result, Nory was quick to solve disputes and did so without much fuss. Her secret of success in this area was simple: Nory would listen before she would act.

Nory's friends will describe her as a talker. She could pretty much talk to anybody about anything. Her ability to hold a conversation made her a popular person throughout her life. But her gift for talking did not derail her ability to be trustworthy, loyal and dependable. Her kindness and and consideration of others radiated an aura of warmth for those that surrounded her. For those reasons Nory was able to make true and lasting friendships. Mila Havil, Auntie Adeling, Auntie Ely and Tiong Chito were friendships that began early in her life. And friends Cora Edaugal and Barbara Solon came later.

Taking her work seriously came naturally to Nory. She was a born list maker and was great at creating and sticking to schedules. Her primary occupation was as Executive Assistant to the Deputy Director of the City and County of San Francisco. Eleanor worked continuously for 41 years. She brought harmony to her work environment, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done, while always maintaining respect for her colleagues. As a result of her efforts she was recognized and given awards. Some of her most prestigious awards included the city and county of San Francisco, Department of Public Works, Bureau of Engineering's Secretary of the Year in 1990. She also received the Merit Award for Recognition of Outstanding Performance on December 16, 1988, December 11, 1990 and December 17, 1991.

As someone who reveled in the sheer joy of her experiences, Nory was always enthusiastic about new adventures. She was ready when that day to retire finally came in 1998. Not only did Nory enjoy traveling, but she also seemed to enjoy planning all of those trips and vacations. She was a facilitator who could easily make up a near perfect schedule of all of the things to do and see. She rarely tired of going back and revisiting her favorite places. Favorite vacations included Washington State, the Philippines, Australia and Hawaii. Eleanor remained in San Francisco and later on moved to Sacramento. In retirement, she found new pleasure in staying active in the church, taking care of family and enjoying being a grandmother. Throughout her later years, Eleanor was an active member of religious organizations including Missionary Oblates. Religion and faith were important to her. She was a member of St. Paul's Church for 6 years. Even in retirement, Nory stayed in touch with her old friends and made plenty of new acquaintances. She was active in the community and felt fulfilled with the opportunities that retirement offered her.

Nory passed away on March 14, 2010 at Mercy General Hospital. Eleanor fought a brave battle against end stage renal disease. She is survived by her husband Alex, children Elgin, Rosan, Aura and Roland, sons-in-law Robert, Rene and Bong, grandchildren Adrian, Adam, Aurelle and Rachelle, sister Priscilla and cousin Tere Villanueva. Services were held at Nicoletti, Culjis & Herberger Funeral Home. Eleanor will be laid to rest in La Loma Cemetery, Quezon City, Philippines.

Nory was a down to earth person, outgoing and gregarious. She was without question the type of person who enjoyed experiencing things first hand. She was practical, sensible, understanding and kind, but what friends and family will remember her for most is the way she lit up the room with a big smile on her face. Everyone whose life she touched will miss Eleanor Abarca Rivera.

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April 11, 2010

Someone posted to the memorial.

April 3, 2010

Gigi Pontejos-Morris posted to the memorial.

April 2, 2010

Joy Baltazar posted to the memorial.

April 11, 2010

Hello Aura,

I'm sorry I couldn't join Liza in giving my personal condolences to you. I have very fond memories of Ninang Nory especially when Liza and I would your Roxas home every Christmas.

Our prayers to you and your family.

Henry and Liza Reynes

Gigi Pontejos-Morris

April 3, 2010

To Tita Nory's family,

It is never easy to lose someone like Tita Nory but she will be always be remembered for how special she is and her memories will keep her alive forever in yours and others' hearts.

Just like any newly transplanted Filipino in United States, I would miss the Philippines so much that I needed to go home every year to keep my sanity :-). A visit to Ate Tere in Azucena st. whenever Tita Nory is around is something I always look forward to. She is such a bubbly person and enjoyed talking to her about my transition to USA. Madali akong naka-relate sa kanya and she has her way of making you feel comfortable.

One of the many things I always admired about Tita Nory is her love for the Philippines and her remaining a true Filipino at heart. I remember all my conversations with her why it is important for us to keep our Filipino identity intact, that in diverse environment like United States, what sets us apart from others are the values, attitudes, traditions, etc. She loves to go back to the Philippines and enjoy what Philippines has to offer her. Sabi ko nga sa kanya, “pag-laki ko gagayahin ko siya” :-) and truly, it is inspiring to know people like her who have no problem enjoying what the best of both world can offer her.

When she moved briefly to Las Vegas, I was happy – sabi ko nga kay Ate Tere, finally may “kamag-anak” na ako sa Las Vegas. It was a short one but I will remember her coming out for my birthday celebration one time with Tito Alex. I will remember her thoughtfulness and her prayers when my Dad passed away. I will remember her sending card and present to my little boy, Bobby. Most importantly, I will remember Tita Nory for the inspirations.

Tita Nory, continue that journey to the ultimate biyahe of your life... whenever, I hear that line – “Tara na, biyahe na” I will always remember you!

Joy Baltazar

April 2, 2010

My heartfelt sympathy to Aura Rivera & Family for the loss of Mommy Nory. - Joy Trinidad Panlilio-Baltazar, MRHS, Batch 82

lina buenaventura

April 2, 2010

condolence...from ruding and lina family

March 27, 2010

Marie,

I just wanted to express to you my sincere sympathy on the loss of your mother. May God grant you and your family strength during this time.

Jerry J. A. Ajlouny

March 27, 2010

Hi Elgin,

Kumusta? Hope you are feeling a bit better. So sorry to hear about your Mom. I still remember the last time we met on that concert. She was doing well. She's definitely in a far better place. It will take a while to get over the loss of your Mom but eventually this will come to pass although the longing will always be there. She's probably looking down at you proudly and beaming on how great her kids turned out to be.

Please extend our condolences to your Dad, Rolex, Rosan and Aura. Elg, really want to tell you that no matter what happened you are always part of us and will always be.

Jet, Lilian, Anica and Agnes

March 27, 2010

Our deepest sympathy to you and your family, and our prayers are with you always.

Love and Always,
Mario Angeles & Family

Mommy Nory and Merlita

Merlita Estrella

March 27, 2010

Our deepest sympathy to The Rivera Family. "Mommy Nory" was such a great and a truly MOM of all...I'm glad that we were able to spend some time with her before...she will truly be missed..with Love, The Estrella's

March 26, 2010

To Rosan and all of Eleanor's Family,

Although I never met your Mom face to face, I felt a true friendship with her. She fought her way back from so many health issues, and never lost her faith or sense of humor. Over these last few years I learned what a great family really is by your family's example. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Fondly,
Nancy Lozano, RN
Case Manager

Mercedes

March 26, 2010

Just like a Mama Bear protecting her cub, my latest memory of Tita Nory was during one of the many celebrations she was willing to host at her home in Sacramento. It was towards the end of the night and things were winding down. Clean up had started. people lay lazily on the couch, and Roland and I were playing around sitting on each others lap. At first Roland was sitting on my lap and no one minded us, or at least that's what we thought. After a few minutes Roland got up and I sat on his lap, suddenly there was a voice...”You're too heavy.” Roland and I both looked up. And again “Mercedes you're too heavy to sit on his lap.” Needless to say I was embarrassed. Excuses were made, “she's just taller she's not bigger” and gasps of “Mom!” from Roland's sisters filled the room. A few minutes later she took my hand and said “Don't take offense to what I said, I was only making a joke, and that's okay because you are family.” As she held my hand and said those words, I immediately felt better, no longer embarrassed. I will miss her smile and welcome hug every time she opened the door for us.

ROBERT HERNANDEZ

March 25, 2010

Keeping you in thought and prayer during the sad time. Condolence.

March 25, 2010

Tita Elg, Uncle Bert,

We will continue praying for Mommy Nory and to the whole family.

God bless you!

In Christ,

Milan Angeles-Cornejo

March 25, 2010

March 25, 2010

Dear Elgin,

Sorry for the informality, but this is the fastest way for us to let you know that we are really so sorry to hear about your mom. Hugo, our kids & I would like to extend our heartfelt condolence to you & your family. We can think of so many consoling words...but we know how tough it is losing someone special in our lives. We want you to know that we always have considered you part of our family & always will.

We will pray for your mom that she may rest in peace & that she may have eternal happiness. Elg, we might not be able to attend your mom's services...Hugo finds it really hard when it comes to this matter. We
hope you understand. We will have a mass offered for your mom.

Take care.

Always,
Hugo, Michelle & children

Bernadette Lynch

March 24, 2010

Dear Rosan,

We are never ready to let go even when we know it is the best. What a wonderful daughter you have been. You can take solace in knowing you did everything you could for your mother.

Peace be with you.

Anthony Evangelista

March 24, 2010

Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted – Matthew 5:4

There are no words to describe how I felt when I heard the news about Mommy Nory. It came as both disbelief and a real shock. I have not been able to stop thinking about her since Monday when I heard of the news from Eric Palpallatoc, a Facebook friend.

The last time I had seen her was several years ago when she and Dad Alex were both down in Anaheim. My mom and I picked them both up to have dinner at a restaurant. I can’t remember what restaurant we went to but I remember her talking about her girls, siempre including her son – Rolex, who she was always proud of. Sabi nga niya, kahit maraming problema, basta lang laging nakatawa - which she always did kaya nga hindi tumatanda. I always enjoyed seeing her dahil every time I did, she would always say ‘ang guwapo mo talaga!”. Hanggang ngayon, hindi pa rin alam kung tunay yung sinasabi niya o inaalaska lang niya ako.

She is the unofficial but yet official mother of Book C. She is a dear friend and someone who gave great advices. She was a second mother to me and I am sure she considered me as one of her own as well. She was a teenager forever. She never seemed to have grown old. She was always in with the times. Bagets na bagets ang dating! She made real good pansit out of Cup-O-Noodles when I went to visit her in San Pablo. And most of all, she will forever be miss.

I know how hard it is to lose a love one. I was in the same situation back in ’96 when my Dad passed away. But for every sorrow, there is joy. And every tear shed, there is laugher forthcoming.

On behalf of my family, my mom, and I, we would like to offer our deepest condolences to all of you.

I miss you guys and ingat lagi!

Vitaly Troyan

March 24, 2010

Dear Friends

I was stunned and deeply saddened to receive your email about Eleanor’s passing. Eleanor was truly a one-of-a-kind person. As a professional and my secretary, she truly ran my work life. She scheduled meetings, did all the office stuff, and kept me out of trouble. As a human being, she was charming, highly intelligent, quick to understand, and always had a kind word and a smile, even when her health started to slip. She will definitely be missed.

Please extend my condolences to the rest of her family.

Barbara Solon

March 24, 2010

Alex/Roxan/Elgin/Aura & Rolex

Thanks for letting me know by phone tonight of the sad parting of your loving mother and my dearest of friend. Her demise will always be remembered as 'so long dear friend' and never farewell, and I will always treasure the many laughters and some tears that we shared throughout our friendship.
I love her dearly and I will miss her so much.

Love always

Dr. Ed Leuenberger

March 24, 2010

Dear Dad Alex, Elgin, Rosan, Aura, and Roland,



May our sharing of sorrow ease the pain of our loss.

Mommy Nory was a dear patient of mine.

I will miss the pleasant emails we used to exchange and the pasalubongs.

I received a box chocolates on her last trip to the Philippines and I feel sad

that I never got to meet her . I hope she was strong enough to get to read my thank you message.

My deepest condolences to your family.

Maribel Aporillo

March 24, 2010

My prayers are with you and family..

Toni Cran

March 24, 2010

Dear Marie,

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your loved ones.

With deepest sympathy for the loss of Mommy Nory.

With love and prayers,

Ly, Rod Vinall and family

March 24, 2010

Hello Alex, Elgin, Rosan, Aura and Rolex,

We extend our deepest sympathy and condolence for the passing of your beloved wife/mother.
Nory was such a nice person and a friend. She is very thoughtful. She always send us an American calendar every year. Also, she forwarded to me via email all Filipino tidbits which gave me a lift at times when I feel overworked. Her last email to me was last 13 January which consist of a bouquet of flowers as well as the family photographs that were taken during her holiday. The photographs showed a very happy family having a great time.

We enjoyed seeing her and you, her siblings last year at Boy's house in Vallejo. I take off my hat of her persistence to come and see us ignoring her health problem. To you Elgin, Rosan, Aura and Rolex, we praise you for being such loving and caring children by giving in to all her requests, that make her happy. She will be sadly missed.

To her we offer this prayer: Eternal rest grant unto Nory, O Lord. May the perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace. Amen.

Condolence from,

Deborah Elder

March 24, 2010

Rosan,

I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your mom. I know how you loved her & how close you were to her, and also I have a very close idea of what you're going through.
Just stay mindful of who God is & HIS reason for calling her home. I'm sure He saying well done my good & faithful servant. Keep her memories close to your heart &
one day---it's going to be alright. You stay strong & keep the faith that God will see you through all this. Hopefully I'll see you on Saturday.

May Gods' Blessing Be With You & Your Family,
Hugs,

Judy Ludwick

March 24, 2010

Rosan,

Thank you for including me in your heartfelt tribute to your mother and her life. Sheila and I are available if you need any assistance.

We send all best wishes and hugs to you and your family,

Rosemary Vaske

March 24, 2010

Rosan,

I am so sorry for your loss. I know that this has been quite a journey the last few years for you, your family and Mrs. Rivera. She was very fortunate to be surrounded by loving family members who gave so unselfishly to help her final years be as comfortable as possible.

With deepest sympathy,

The Vedars

March 24, 2010

Dear Rivera Family,

You have our heart-felt condolences for your loss. My family will be at the service on the 27th. Please don't hesitate to ask if you need anything.

Sincerely,

Alice Mabutas

March 24, 2010

Good evening/morning or afternoon (whatever the case maybe).

For those who do not know me, I am Alice Lara Mabutas. I am a former office mate of Nory at the Dev. Bank of the Phils. and together with Art , Josie and Clocel, the 5 of us make one inseparable barkada!! I have known Nory for a long long time but we only became really really close friends when we were already here in the US. Having Nory, Josie , Clocel and Art as friends tremendously change my life. We have become an indispensable part of all important occasions in each others lives - birthdays, Christmases and other holidays. Those celebrations never felt complete without my dear friends. Whenever we were together, there was never a dull moment, our conversations were always interesting and animated. Admittedly, Nory was always the life of the party. Being the bubbly person that she was, she always got the assignment of entertainer to our group driver, Art whenever the group went out on long trips to Las Vegas and wherever our feet would take us. She had to keep the conversation with Art going to keep him from falling asleep behind the wheel. In effect, she became our group guardian angel as she helped Art steer us away from danger in those long drives.

I will miss you Nory. And how could I not? I will never forget the blast we had seeing a show once, the long enjoyable nights at the casino, the happy conversations, the wonderful company. I regret not having had the chance to spend the past holidays with you. I hope that while you were with us, I was able to show you how much I adored you, appreciated your presence in my life and how much I loved you.

Rest peacefully dear Nory in the bosom of our Creator because that is the only place you deserve to be.

Aubin, Tisha and Tiana

March 24, 2010

Dear, Elgin, Rosan, Aura and Rolex:

Please accept our deepest condolences and sympathy during this most difficult time for you all. I know you are all going thru alot of emotions now and I pray that with time all of the terrific and wonderful memories will soon put a smile on your faces and warm your hearts of all the good times and moments you had with your Mom. I know there is nothing that can be said at this time of grief that can be comforting to you all but please know we continue to pray for you all.

God Bless you all,

Kirti Kumar-Hooda

March 24, 2010

Hi Rosan,

It’s Kirti from work. I just wanted to say I am very sorry to hear about your mom. I know how close you were to her and this must be a very difficult time for you. Try to stay as strong as you can and take good care of yourself and your family. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Take care and see you and talk to you soon.

Sandy Deutsch

March 24, 2010

Good morning Rosan,

I was so sorry to hear about your Mom. I know how much you cared for her and was such a wonderful daughter to her. I plan on going to the viewing next week so will see you then. Please take care of yourself and feel free to call me if you need anything at all or just to talk.

Love

Caryl Rose

March 24, 2010

Dear Rosan:
I was so sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Always,

Caryl L. Rose, MSW

Nancy Yavrom

March 24, 2010

To the whole family of “Mommy Nory,” but in particular Rosan, please accept my heartfelt condolences.

A friend,

nancy

March 22, 2010

To the Rivera Family:

Pls. accept our family's sincere condolence and deep sympathy on the untimely demise of Eleanor. She was always a nice, funny, cheerful, and a happy lady whenever I see and talk to her. She will be missed by everybody.

May she rest in peace and have an everlasting happy life with GOD in heaven.
She deserves it..'

Enrico S. de Lara and family

3967 Savannah Court
South San Francisco, CA 94080

March 18, 2010

Though not having met Eleanor personally I have had the great pleasure of working with her daughter Rosan who has told me many stories making me feel as if I have known Eleanor forever. I am terribly sorry for your loss and offer my condolances and thoughts in your time of sorrow. If any assistance is needed please feel free to ask. e-mail: [email protected].
Megan Flint

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5401 Folsom Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95819

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April 11, 2010

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April 3, 2010

Gigi Pontejos-Morris posted to the memorial.

April 2, 2010

Joy Baltazar posted to the memorial.