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Irene Baltazar Ragasa, 91, passed away on march 27, 2017 at Community Regional Medical Center in Fresno, California. Irene was born on September 19, 1925 in San Sebastian, San Vicente, Ilocos Sur, Philippines with very humble beginnings. She was an exceptionally hard worker and made many sacrifices in order to provide for her family. In 1943, Irene married Antonio Riberal Ragasa, who preceded her death on March 5, 2003. Irene is also preceded in death by her son Mariano "Mar" Ragasa who passed away on August 19, 2003. Irene was a devoted and loving wife and mother. She was very proud of her family and enjoyed being a grandmother and great-grandmother. Irene loved holidays and family get-togethers; any chance to spend time with her family was important to her especially if it meant a trip to the casino. There was never a day that Irene did not take the time to pray for each and every one of her loved ones before going to bed. She was also an active member in the Filipino Community. She never turned down an opportunity to get dressed up an dance despite her difficulty walking. During the past few months, Irene demonstrated such incredible positivity and strength while battling her weakening heart. She never gave up hope despite it all. Irene always treated her family and her caregivers with patience, kindness and love. Even in her final days she still found a way to smile or laugh even if it was just with a gaze or a nod of her head. The family wants to express their sincere gratitude to everyone who helped care for Irene at Pacific Gardens Nursing and Rehabilitation Center as well as the team at CRMC Fresno. Irene loved everyone relentlessly, and that is exactly what she received in return. Now she is in the arms of our God. Surviving are her children, Florencio and wife Josie of Virginia Beach, VA, Teresita and her husband Peddy of Fresno, CA, Zenaida of Fresno, CA, Marcelino and his wife Marilou of Livermore, CA and Johnny and his wife Amy of San Leandro, CA. She was the beloved Lola of beloved grandchildren, Jeff and his wife Darlyn, Grace and her husband Matt, Stephanie and her husband Alex, Jill Marie, Sheena Rose and Juan, Marc Anthony, Jennifer, AJ, Meleah Ashley and Krystina. Irene also leaves six great grandchildren, Bella, Ava, Jade, Dreyden, Arielle and Noah. Visitation will be held at Chapel of the Light Funeral Home on Friday, March 31, 2017 from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. A vigil service will begin at 6:00 p.m. in the Chapel. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church on Saturday, April 1, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at St. Peter's Cemetery.

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Irene Baltazar Ragasa

September 18, 1925 - March 27, 2017