Avelina C. Valdez

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Avelina Cuaresma Valdez, a beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, who peacefully left us on December 24, 2025, at the age of 93. Born on December 1, 1932, in Mangatarem, Pangasinan, Philippines, Avelina led a life filled with love, service, and unwavering devotion to God, her family, and her community.

Avelina moved to the United States in 1955, and in 1967, she and her husband, Dr. Jose V. Valdez, settled in Michigan, where they became pillars of the Filipino community. They welcomed countless newcomers into their home, offering them a warm and compassionate place to begin their new lives. Their generosity and commitment to helping others formed the foundation of a tight-knit community that remains strong to this day.

A lifelong devout Catholic, Avelina was an active member of her parish, serving as both a Eucharistic Minister and lector. Her faith was a guiding force throughout her life, and the strength of her belief touched many. Whenever anyone close to her faced an important decision or a difficult exam, they knew that asking Avelina to light a candle and say a prayer on their behalf would ensure a positive outcome.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dr. Jose V. Valdez; her son, Ronald Valdez; and her brothers, Perfecto (Seferina) Cuaresma, Gil Cuaresma, and Camilo Cuaresma. Avelina is survived by her children: Debra (Thomas) Amross, Marie (Robert) Boomer, Jose Valdez and partner Annabel Clayton, daughter-in-law Pamela Valdez, and Gerard (Sonia) Valdez. She is also survived by her sister, Violeta (Swadesh) Behl, and sisters-in-law Lydia Cuaresma and Ligaya Cuaresma.

She was the proud grandmother of Monica Boomer, Anthony Boomer, Rebecca Loyer, Thomas Geoffrey (Meredith) Amross, Christopher Boomer, Stephanie (Riley) Moffatt, Joseph Valdez, Isabella Sio, Avelina Valdez, Roman Valdez, Nicholas Valdez, Sophia Valdez, and Olivia Valdez. Avelina was also blessed with great-grandchildren Luke Loyer, Colton Loyer, and Malia Moffatt, who brought her so much joy.

She will also be deeply missed by her beloved niece, Catherine (John) Chandler, and grand-nephew, Emery Chandler, along with countless other family members and friends, many of whom considered her an honorary sister, mother, aunt, or grandmother.

Known for her legendary home-cooked meals, Avelina’s kitchen was a place where laughter, love, and warmth were abundant. Family gatherings were a cherished part of her life, and she created memories that will be treasured for generations to come. Avelina was an ardent supporter of her family, always ready with encouragement, wisdom, and a listening ear.

She also enjoyed traveling, whether taking cross-country road trips with her young children, making pilgrimages to Jerusalem, or touring Europe with her husband.

Her legacy of love, faith, and service will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be dearly missed but never forgotten.

May she rest in eternal peace.

Visitation will take place at The Trenton Chapel of The Martenson Family of Funeral Homes on Friday, January 2, 2026 from 2:00 pm until 8:00 pm. The service will take place Saturday, January 3, 2026, where Avelina will lie in state at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Trenton, from 9:30 am until mass begins at 10:00 am.