January 21, 2021. Jesusa was born on January 2, 1941, in Tarlac City, Philippines. She was encouraged by her parents, Roque Mallari and Clara Bondoc, to focus on her passion in education. They instilled the values of family, humility, and generosity, to Jesusa and her six siblings.
Jesusa’s early education began in Tarlac City. After graduating Tarlac High School in 1956, Jesusa continued her studies at The University of Santo Tomas, Manila, studying education and following her path in teaching and working with young children. Jesusa was a model student, consistent in excelling in her academics. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education in 1960. She became a primary school teacher, at the recommendation of her mentor, at Siena College in Manila, teaching in all subject areas. In 1962 she met the love of her life, Rogelio T. de Runa, in Manila. They enjoyed five memorable years together before getting married on January 7, 1967 at The University of Santo Tomas. The following year, their first child was born, Vincent Raymond. In 1969 they began their life together and moved to California. After living in a few cities around the Bay Area, and having three more children, James Byron, Charles Jason, and Janelle Mallari, they found their forever home in Milpitas in 1979, and resided there ever since.
Jesusa chose not to work for a few years after moving to California in order to be home with their children. However, she did miss being in the classroom. She was an active parent in her children’s elementary school--volunteering in the classroom, going on field trips, and being an active PTA member. Her love of working with children flourished in activities such as small groups, reading one-on-one, and fun-filled class field trips. Jesusa later worked for various companies in Santa Clara County--Siliconix, Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), and Quality Semiconductors Inc. (QSI).
Jesusa loved family trips and the outdoors. From visiting the Philippines, Disneyland, and Canada, to camping, Alaskan cruises, and annual family picnics. She always wore her “Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis” sunglasses and surrounded herself with delicious food, and wonderful company. She enjoyed recounting the memories and stories of latest events, parenting, and living life.
Jesusa, also referred to as Jessie, Mom, and grandma, was a woman of faith and devoted to the Lord. She attended mass every Sunday at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Milpitas. As an active church parishioner and within the church community, Jesusa had enjoyed singing in the adult choir, being a Eucharist minister, and facilitating altar servers with parishioners in preparing for Sunday’s mass. Her generosity spoke volumes as she donated to many church organizations, as well as St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
She is survived by her husband of 54 years, Roger, her four children, Vincent and wife, Helen, James and wife Alem, Jason and wife Yvonne, and Janelle and husband John; grandchildren, Andre, Nicholas, Malia, Liam, and Matias, and step-grandchildren, Kelyn and Will. Preceded in death by her parents, Roque and Clara Bondoc Mallari, brothers Nemecio Mallari, Wilfredo Mallari, and sister Inocencia Jiménez. Jesusa’s compassion, dependability, and patience are just a few qualities that make us feel fortunate to have this wonderful woman in our lives. Mom has forever made a positive and inspiring imprint on those that knew her and loved her.
We love and will always miss her. She will forever be in our hearts. Until we meet again...
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