It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ligaya G. Sebastian.  Ligaya passed away peacefully early Monday morning, February 21, 2011 after a courageous and hard fought battle with cancer.

Loving wife of Fred; devoted mother of Ian & Ivy; cherished sister to her surviving 6 siblings; Aunt to her many nieces and nephews; and wonderful friend to a countless many.

Ligaya was born in Zaragoza, Nueva Ecija, Philippines.  At the age of 18 she was the first of her family to spread her wings and leave her home country to explore the world.  Her adventurous nature brought her to the Netherlands where she worked for 3 years and made many life long friends.  During this time, she was able to achieve her childhood dream of visiting London Bridge as well as travel the rest of Europe.  Aiming to travel more of the world she immigrated to Canada.  During her life she was able to visit all of North America and Australia.

Ligaya was a selfless individual.  Along with her husband, Fred, Ligaya helped a lot of people.  It was important to them to provide the same opportunities they enjoyed to many of their Filipino friends and family.   Immigration sponsorship and support was their way of providing those opportunities.  Many Families are now enjoying life in Canada because of Fred and Ligaya’s open heart and willingness to help.

In November 2009, Ligaya, a non-smoker, was diagnosed with stage 4, lung cancer.  Her fighting spirit and determined will gave her the courage to combat her diagnosis.   She remained positive and determined throughout her fight with cancer.  Using her loving family as support, she put up a courageous fight each day until she passed, all with a smile on her face and love in her heart.

Ligaya’s tremendous courage, resonating laughter and selfless heart are just a few of the many reasons why we all love her so much. We are so grateful that she was part of our lives and happy that she will live on in our hearts.

Evening Prayer and viewing will be offered February 27, 2011, 6pm at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church (4451 Williams Road, Richmond, BC) where Mass of Christian Burial will also be celebrated at 11am, Monday, February 28, 2011. Interment to immediately follow at Gardens of Gethsemani Cemetary (15800 - 32nd Avenue, Surrey, BC).

In lieu of flowers, Ligaya requested that donations be made to the Richmond Hospital Foundation - www.richmondhospitalfoundation.com.

It was important for our Ligaya to give back.  She spent most of her time in the Palliative Care Department at the Richmond Hospital.  The staff there were wonderful in making her feel comfortable.  Donations in lieu of flowers was to be her way of saying "Thank you".