Patria C.B. Esteban's Obituary
Patria C.B. Esteban, 82, passed away peacefully in her Clairemont home on September 30, 2019, lovingly surrounded by her immediate family, including her husband of almost 61 years, Antonio M. Esteban, their six children and spouses and several grandchildren. She was a treasure to those who knew her and among many things, she always strived to be the best wife, mother, grandparent, friend, as well as sister and daughter, although miles apart from her cherished family in the Philippines.
Patria “Baby” Balajadia, also known as “Pat,” was born to the late Antonio and Constancia Balajadia in Manila on November 8, 1936. She graduated from Philippine Women’s University and had initially planned to continue teaching and pursuing additional education. However, four months prior to December 20, 1958, her plans changed, as she met the love of her life. Immediately following their wedding—because of Tony’s service as U.S. Navy Corpsman—they moved to his next assignment, Great Lakes, Illinois. It was the first of many transfers with and without children and whirlwind personal travels spanning the globe, including stops in different parts of the U.S., Asia, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Central and South America.
She was the world to her children and provided tremendous support and unconditional love. Pat’s love and joy was to spend time with family and friends. She traveled the world, was an unbelievable cook, loved different languages, appreciated learning new things every day, volunteered her time at schools and community organizations, and was involved in every facet of her children’s lives. She was known as “Mom” by many of her children’s friends. During her 25 years in hospitality with Beach Haven Inn, she created long-lasting friendships with co-workers and out-of-town guests from all over the world. Most notably, of the many things that could be said about Pat, we will always remember her smile, her warmth, her joyful happiness, the contagious zest she had for life, and the authentic love and care she extended to all she met. She lived her life to the fullest and in this light, Pat requested that her life be celebrated with and joyous happy occasion. It was also Pats request that all who attended her funeral mass on Saturday to wear the color white.
Pat is survived by her husband Tony Esteban, Sr.; six children and spouses, including Donny Esteban (Terri), Tony Esteban (Liza), J.D. Esteban (Trish), Mark Esteban (Juliana), Tessie Poggione (Peter) and Eva Esteban-Hammett (Ron); eight grandchildren, including Paul Esteban, Whitley Esteban, Samantha Esteban Winerip, Sean Esteban, Andrew Poggione, Paige Poggione, Alysa Hammett and Amelia Esteban; her brother Antonio Balajadia, Sr. (wife Lydia); niece and Goddaughter Tonilyd Balajadia and nephew Antonio Balajadia, Jr. as well as many close relatives and friends.
The Viewing and Rosary will be held on Friday, October 18, 2109 at Clairemont Mortuary from 4pm-8pm. Funeral Mass on Saturday, October 19th from 2pm at St. Catherine Laboure Catholic Church followed by Celebration of Life reception in the parish hall. She will be laid to rest at National Miramar Ceremony on Monday, October 21, 2019 at 2pm
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