Zenaida Valbuena Altamirano

     Zenaida Valbuena Altamirano, a woman of intellect, grace, and boundless curiosity, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy marked by exploration, knowledge, faith, and love. Born on August 27, 1940, in San Antonio, Kalayaan, Laguna, Philippines, she was the beloved daughter of Elias Altamirano and Caridad Valbuena, and lovingly raised by her stepmother, Rosa Encarnacion. She was the middle of three siblings, cherished by her older brother Rolando Altamirano and her younger sister, Ruth Estrellado.

     Zenaida was a scholar at heart. Her love of learning led her to become an esteemed educator in the field of chemistry at the University of Chicago, where she inspired countless students with her brilliance and passion. A true intellectual, she also had a deep love for numbers and delighted in solving complex problems with quiet confidence and joy.

     Her curiosity extended beyond the classroom. From a young age, she had a yearning to explore the world beyond her home. That same spirit of adventure led her across the globe, tracing the sacred paths of Catholic saints and visiting holy sites like Our Lady of Guadalupe and Our Lady of Fatima. She returned from her journeys with vivid stories, colorful insights, and a genuine love for the people, food, and culture she encountered.

     In her later years, Zenaida found a new way to explore the world—through the lens of a camera. Photography became her hobby and a source of great joy. She especially loved capturing vibrant colors —fields of flowers, smiling faces, the subtle beauty of everyday life. Her photographs reflected the way she saw the world; full of light, beauty, and meaning.

     To be around Zenaida was to be both fascinated and entertained. She was quick-witted, deeply thoughtful, and always ready with a story. Her presence lit up every room, and where warmth left a lasting impression on everyone she met. She was deeply loved and cared for, and her absence leaves an ache in the hearts of all who knew her.

     She is survived by her loving nieces and nephews, and their children—her grandnieces and grandnephews—who will forever hold her memory close. Zenaida’s life was a beautiful blend of wisdom, wonder, and warmth. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the lessons she taught, and the love she gave so freely. We miss her deeply, but we celebrate the incredible life she lived. She will always have a special place in our hearts.

“Well done, good and faithful servant...enter into the joy of your Lord.” —Matthew 25:23