Mildred Villanueva Purugganan, born on July 11, 1954, in Baguio, Philippines, to the late Eufronio Sr. and the late Rosita Villanueva, a welder and homemaker, peacefully passed away on February 24, 2024, resting in the arms of the Lord Jesus Christ. She was the middle child among her siblings: the late Eufronio Jr. and the surviving Alma.
Completing her primary and secondary education in Baguio, Mildred graduated in the top ten of her nursing class in 1976 from the University of the Philippines–Philippine General Hospital School of Nursing. During her rural nursing internship, she met the love of her life, Salvador Purugganan, at the town fiesta of Santa Catalina, Ilocos Sur.
Mildred pursued her Bachelor's Degree in Nursing at Arellano University. After her graduation, she forged lasting friendships throughout her nursing career, initially working at the Philippine General Hospital before immigrating to the United States in pursuit of greener pastures. Obtaining her nursing license in Michigan, she worked at Saginaw Osteopathic Hospital for two years.
Moving to California, Mildred was employed at Stanford Hospital for ten years. Enduring a four-year long-distance relationship with Salvador, she returned to the Philippines for a short vacation, where Salvador proposed. They married on June 18, 1983. Returning to the USA pregnant with their first child, Salvador joined her in 1984, just before giving birth.
Salvador and Mildred raised their family in Northern California, nurturing three children: Stephen (born 1984; married to Phoebe Decena), Michael (born 1987; in a loving relationship with Kayla Eichenberger), and Erin (born 1990; in a loving relationship with Francisco Cayabyab). Moving to the city of Antioch in 1992, Mildred dedicated 30 years of service, specializing as an oncology nurse at Mt. Diablo Medical Center, now known as John Muir Health, Concord Medical Center, before her recent retirement.
She was an active member of the United Sons of Santa Catalina, Inc Northern California, which contributed to funding scholarships for deserving students. She dedicated much of her time and years with this organization as she believed it was of great importance to provide educational opportunities to individuals less fortunate in the Philippines.
Mildred, a passionate bibliophile, culinary artist, retail connoisseur, screen entertainment aficionado, and wanderlust enthusiast, was a devoted mother, loving wife, caring daughter, supportive sibling, loyal friend, and seasoned medical professional. While her absence leaves a void, her legacy of kindness, humility, and compassion will be forever cherished and remembered.
Mildred found joy in simple pleasures and cherished her moments of leisure. Her favorite way to spend a day off was watching a movie, creating memories enveloped in the magic of storytelling.
Mildred had a melodious heart, and ballads were the soundtrack to her life. Among them, "Smile" by Engel Humperdinck held a special place, echoing the sentiments that resonated with her soul.
Mildred shared that the best vacation she ever took was to Batanes, Philippines, a place she described as gorgeous, reminiscent of the enchanting landscapes of New Zealand. Her wanderlust knew no bounds, and New Zealand remained the next destination on her travel bucket list, a dream she hoped to fulfill.
A devoted reader, Mildred found solace and joy in the world of books. This passion sprouted in her childhood, blossoming a love for reading that stayed with her throughout her life.
Reflecting on her youth, Mildred cherished the age of 14. It was during high school, a time she fondly remembered for the camaraderie with classmates and the abundance of friendships that enriched her life.
Mildred embraced life as an extrovert, finding joy in connecting with others, making lasting friendships, and leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those fortunate enough to know her.
Mildred's culinary tastes reflected her appreciation for diverse flavors. From the comforting embrace of Filipino cuisine to the bold and vibrant Thai dishes, the delicate artistry of Japanese sushi, and the rich and savory offerings of Korean food—each bite was a journey through the cultures she loved.
As we remember Mildred, let us celebrate the beautiful tapestry of her life, woven with the threads of love, joy, and cherished moments. May her spirit continue to smile upon us, forever in our hearts.
A private memorial service will be held to honor Mildred's life and legacy.
May her soul find eternal peace in the embrace of the Lord.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests monetary donations towards funeral costs to be sent via Zelle using [email protected]. There is also Venmo using @Erin-Purugganan.
Condolences and memories may be shared at [email protected].
Funeral arrangements entrusted to Holy Cross Cemetery & Funeral Center, 2200 E 18th St, Antioch, CA 94509.
