Obituary

It is with heavy hearts that we inform you of the passing of our beloved mother, Mary Patricia Bueno, affectionately known as Pat/ “Melbs,” on Sunday, December 3, 2023, at the age of 85.  Born on May 26, 1938, in La Salle, Illinois, Pat was a loving mother to Pillar, Michael, Cathy (+), Elizabeth & Vittorio, Patricia & Paul, Jennifer, Cirilo James & Claire, and Leslie & Michael.  She was also a doting grandmother to Nicole & Michael, Ashley, Olivia, Layla, Audrey, and Ronan.

Pat dedicated her life to being a wife, mother, and grandmother.  Together with her late husband, Major General Cirilo Bueno Jr., Pat raised their family in Manila, Philippines, where she embraced and was deeply inspired by the rich Philippine culture.  Her love and care for her family knew no bounds.

Known for her wit and quick comebacks, Pat was a joy to be around.  Her sense of humor was infectious, bringing laughter and delight to those who knew her.  Her children have countless stories of her clever banter that always left them in stitches.  Pat’s love for her grandchildren was immeasurable and she never missed an opportunity to shower them with affection and praise.

Another passion of Pat’s was cooking.  “The Joy of Cooking.”  She took great pleasure in teaching her children and grandchildren family recipes, such as “The turkey” and “The stuffing” for Thanksgiving.  Through her culinary skills, she shared her happiness and created lasting memories with her loved ones.

Memorial Services will be held on Dec 13, 2023 at 10:00 AM at O’Connor Mortuary, 25301 Alicia Pkwy, Laguna Hills, CA 92653 (www.oconnormortuary.com).  She will be laid to rest at Holy Sepulcher Catholic Cemetery, 7845 Santiago Canyon Rd, Orange, CA 92869 at 1 PM.  Reception will follow after the graveside service at 29142 Latigo Canyon Rd, Silverado, CA 92676.

We will be hosting a webcast for Pat’s funeral, and we invite close family and friends to join us in honoring her life.

Please note that the service will be intimate. Out of respect for Pat’s wishes, we kindly request you not share this announcement or link on social media.