Candida Hipolito Guirao

On October 3rd, 1942, was born to Manuel and Paz Hipolito in Lemu of the Cagayan Valley during the WW2 Japanese Occupation of Cagayan, born in a small hut with her family while in hiding. At this time, the Japanese soldiers were ordered to kill all babies to send a message to the Filipino people. However, her life was spared as she reminded a Japanese officer of his own children due to her light skin complexion and Asian eyes. As a child, she was always outside with her friends. During the full moon, they played a game called Patintero, a variant game of tag. When not playing tag, she would steal her grandfather’s bicycle or be found on a Kalesa to get around town. Candida also spent time at the local market, helping her parents who were butchers but would always find clever ways of leaving early by always being hungry. Her favorite fruit growing up was the Korean Pear, a fruit she has always enjoyed and made sure to introduce to her kids, who also love Korean Pear! This love of fruit, forced her mother to hide them on top of the cabinets, but that did not stop her brother Victor and herself from stealing them at night while her parents were asleep. Speaking of stealing, did you know she would steal money from her parents just to buy ice cream? Her family moved to Tuguegarao where she attended St. Paul College for High School. At first she wanted to be a Nutritionist, but eventually found her way into Nursing. At the University of Santo Thomas (1959-1961), she studied Pre-Nursing before eventually moving on to the Chinese General Hospital (1961-1964) to earn her Bachelors Degree in Nursing. Following graduation, she left the Philippines to start a new life, by migrating to the small town of Glendon, Alberta, Canada in January of 1966 and began her new career at Glendon Hospital. While living in Glendon, she worked with a Filipina by the name of Alice Uy who introduced her to a PenPal by the name of Renato Guirao. At first she did not want a PenPal. She did it for fun just to appease him, but Renato was persistent, often calling long distance while intoxicated. This did not sit well with her as she hung up on him for being annoying. However, she finally gave in and married Renato on May 19, 1973. She enjoyed a loving and happy marriage of 47 years with Renato, as the wife of a Non-Commissioned Officer in the US Navy and gave birth to three sons. They were often seen spending time together at a casino, playing their favorite slot machines. Candida enjoyed spending time with her Agnews Unit 86 friends. A special group in her heart, they knew how to light up her day even until her final days. We are thankful for their love and friendship. A renowned cook in the kitchen, she is known for her Roast Beef Pot Roast, always looking forward to family gatherings to share her favorite dish. Candida is survived by her three sons: Paul Albert, James Gerald and Mark Philip Guirao whom she instilled strong family values. On September 21, 2023, Candida passed and entered the gates of Heaven to gain another angel. Her never ending smile welcomed anyone that came into her home. She accepted and treated everyone the same compassion and love as if they were her own. Her sense of humor always brought a smile to everyone. Her presence will never be forgotten.

Candida Hipolito Guirao

October 3, 1942 - September 21, 2023