Socorro L. Manato - Obituary

ocorro “Lola” Lacerna Manato, 98, peacefully passed January 16, 2025. She was a beloved mother, wife, grandmother, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Socorro was born on September 25, 1926, to Eliseo and Vicenta Lacerna, in Marinduque, Philippines, where she spent her formative years with her five other sibling —Salvador, Pedro, Pastor, Teresa, Guadalupe, and Crisanta. She went to Far Eastern University for Elementary Teacher’s Certificate. She received Bachelor of Science in Education at Ortanez University and graduated Master’s Degree with Guidance and Counselling at National University, Manila, Philippines. She was eventually became a School Principal at Proper Bansud Elementary School, Oriental Mindoro. Throughout her career, she was known for her hard work, dedication, and passion for helping others. But more than anything, Socorro was a devoted family and community member. She loved spending time playing bingo, building and maintaining the Senior Community in Chicago, and being a pillar of support for those who knew her. She was always there to offer guidance, support, and encouragement, no matter what challenges they faced. She was an active member of Pilipino American Senior’s Association of Chicago, where she served as an officer for many years. She was recognized by her community with a 2017 Outstanding Filipino American Senior Award. Socorro is pre-deceased by her spouse, Donato Manato (Former Vice Mayor of Bansud, Oriental Mindoro), and two of her children, Ariel and Alma, is survived by her other loving children, Arlene, Allan, and Arroll (Jojo). Her memory will be cherished by all who knew her. A private funeral service will be held for family and close friends. Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate Socorro's life on Sunday, February 2 from 2-8 PM at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory: 6160 Oxon Hill Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Monday, February 3 at 11 AM at St. Joseph Catholic Church: 4590 St Josephs Way Pomfret, MD 20675. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery.