Obituary of Marcelina De Jesus Dela Rosa

February 5, 1957 – Bulacan, Philippines

September 5, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

Marcelina Dela Rosa (nee De Jesus), the beloved wife of Armando Felipe Dela Rosa of Calgary, AB, passed away on Thursday, September 5, 2024, at the age of 67 years.

Marcelina was born in Bulacan, Philippines, on February 5, 1957. She moved to Calgary, AB, Canada in 2009.

Marcelina took great pleasure in being photographed and filmed because it allowed her to hold onto cherished memories and feel a sense of nostalgia. She treasured having physical reminders that she could look back on, regardless of how much time had passed.

The phrase "forgiveness" held a special place in Marcelina's heart. She made it a point to instill in her family the importance of forgiving those who had caused them pain, drawing on the belief that God had also forgiven them.

In times of disappointment, she often reminded others that "God has a better plan" when things didn't go according to their plans. Her unwavering faith and devotion to God shone through in her daily conversations with Him, and His guidance in every battle she took in this journey gave her the courage to fight each one of them.

Marcelina held the title of favourite "Tita Baby” in every family she was a part of. Since the beginning, she has never turned away from anyone who has sought her help, always willing to go above and beyond to bring joy and support to those around her.

Those who knew her will always remember Marcelina as a bright and cheerful individual. Her infectious smile wasn't the only thing people admired her for; her generosity and selflessness also left a deep impression. Her exceptional culinary skills were also noteworthy, as she found great joy in seeing others relish the meals she prepared. For Marcelina, love was the most essential ingredient in every dish she created.

Besides her loving husband, Marcelina is survived by her daughter Mary Jane Villanueva and son Ephraim Gatdula; her five grandchildren, Klea Villanueva, Klaire Villanueva, Karla Villanueva of Calgary, AB, and Paolo Gatdula and Jose Gatdula, of Manila, Philippines; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to Prayers and Tributes at McInnis & Holloway (Deerfoot South, 12281 – 40th Street SE, Calgary, AB) on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, at 6:30 p.m.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Albert the Great Catholic Church (10 Prestwick Drive S.E., Calgary AB) on Thursday, September 12, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. Reception to follow in the Parish Hall. 

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Marcelina’s family here.

In living memory of Marcelina Dela Rosa, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Eastside, 5388 Memorial Drive NE, Calgary, AB T2A 3V9, Telephone: 403-248-8585.