Juanita Pagatpatan Tahilan

Mom was born in Badoc, Ilocos Norte, the Philippines on February 18, 1932. She migrated to Maui in 1975 to join dad and children who had come before her. Upon arriving from the Philippines, our family moved to Puunene at the plantation camp where we lived for many years. Mom worked at Monsanto for a few years before joining HC&S where she and dad worked for over 25 years as field workers. I remember mom waking up very early in the mornings to catch her ride to the field and coming home covered in dust from head to toe but never heard her complained once about how hard her work was. After her retirement, mom was just as happy and tirelessly working at her vegetable garden with dad. She also enjoyed sewing and piecing fabrics to make clothes and blankets. Mom was an accomplished seamstress and tailor.

Mom was pre-deceased by her parents Leon and Ignacia Pagatpatan, her eldest daughter Agnes Tahilan and 7 siblings: Hilario, Saulo, Cirilo, Gregorio, Elpidio, Carlina and Teresita. Mom was the last survivor of her generation, the Pagatpatan Family.

Mom is survived by our dad, Justino Tahilan and her children: Imelda (David) Balmores, Ofelia (Howie) Burrill, Robert (Ann ) Tahilan.

Grandchildren: Heizel Manuel (Rey), Daniel Prones (Laurie), Michael (Rosie) Balmores, Gabriel Balmores, Matthew (Fiona) Burrill, Taylor Burrill, Ashley Tahilan, Jonah Tahilan.

Great grandchildren: Maddox and Peyton Prones, Micah, Ryzen, Rylan, Raige, Skylar and Greyson Balmores, Elle and Mila Burrill and many nieces, nephews and extended relatives here in Hawaii, Canada and the Philippines.

Mom will be remembered for her unselfish love, her hard work, generosity and humility.

Mom enjoyed her last year at Hale Makua-Wailuku where she received wonderful care from the loving and caring staff whom she considered family especially Jennifer. She also enjoyed her roommate and friend Jeany where both enjoyed crocheting together.

Our sincere appreciation and gratitude to Dr Pam Hope, Dr. Xavier Naranjo and to all the wonderful and caring staff of Hale Makua-Wailuku for the love and care for mom.

Funeral service and visitation will be at Nakamura Mortuary on January 3, 2026 from 10:00-12:00 with service at 11:00 and burial at Maui Memorial Park at 2:00 pm.