Evangelina T. Topacio

Questioning the truth is often a perplexing task. In contrast, questioning the truth about one’s self is a limitless journey; a bewildering excursion filled with so much self-discovery that it persists on being one of the most strenuous questions to answer. But what about the question, “Who are we?” makes it such a peculiar one to interact with?

Is it because there are so many movable components to this never-ending epilogue of our own life? A life is dynamic; constantly changing and persistently adapting to countless situations. In one’s life, it is usually the case that a person questions how they came to be. This one simple question, however, expands into other considerable questions of how they were raised, what they had to overcome during their lifetime, and most importantly, whose lives were fortunate enough to touch them.

Evangelina. Ellen. Mom. Ate. Tita. Lola.

She goes by many names, to many different people. No matter the name you call her, one thing is for certain; Evangelina was definitely an “angel” to us all. She started from humble beginnings inside Imus, Cavite in the Philippines, born from Lola Diday and Lolo Beloy. By being a quick learner and devoted student, Ellen was able to graduate with high regards throughout her years in school, thus leading to her Bachelor’s in Business Administration from The University of the East, where she earned her title as a C.P.A. Separated by a river that coursed through their hometown, she later courted and married Dominador Camerino Topacio. Together they gave birth to three sons: Mandy, Jun and Harry. Commonly referred by friends and family as Kuya Boy and Ate Ellen, the powerful pair exhibited a sheer determination in the realm of business. They established a string of small businesses both in the Philippines and the States such as a favored bus company and their notable Shell gas station.

Ellen expressed many interests during her lifetime. It was a rarity to not see a Coca-Cola bottle atop her bedside table, or her lap free of a lottery scratch ticket. Regularly, her television screen would be tuned in on a game show, with Family Feud being the most typical choice. If that wasn’t the case, then it would most likely be a rerun of the Golden Girls or a Chicago Bulls game. A true fan, audible screams would be heard from her room just from a Bulls player missing a shot, or a turnover in the process… clearly she had reminisced about the Jordan days. However, above all, writing was her sole disposition. She had a proclivity to write prayers for her family, close friends, and acquaintances of Opus Dei.

An avid follower of God, Ellen was the epitome of dedication when it came to professing her faith. She was a devoted church-goer who attended the Sunday services every week along with the additional feast days and holy festivals. She would faithfully dedicate her time going to Opus Dei meetings and tending to her extensive collection of religious paperbacks and parables. Her entire being was infused with the teachings of the Bible and she endeavored to act in accordance to God’s will each and every day.

“Do unto others as you would have others do unto you”.

Without a doubt, this is the rule she lived by. Ellen had experienced the tragedies of the less fortunate during her earlier years, so she took it upon herself to help those who were suffering whenever given the chance. She never hesitated to extend a loving and gentle hand to the mentally ill, the lepers, or the homeless women and children of Maristella for whom she volunteered for. Ellen would offer free dental work, programs for the sick, circumcisions, and health check-ups to those who could ill-afford. As indicated, Ellen’s selflessness was prominent all throughout her life. She would insist on providing both her time and resources to those who required aid the most. Even during her brief residency at Little Sisters of the Poor, Ellen would share with the sisters and the staff her radiant smile and warm personality to liven up their days.

Beauty and glamour were of great importance to her as well. She always prepared her purse with a comb to stroke back her hair in times of misplacement. Everything had to match. From the undershirt beneath her blazer, to the socks beneath her polished shoes, all her attire represented one color. Green may have been her favorite color, but if it felt like a day to wear red, then each article of clothing would comprise of that certain hue. Lush jewels would cover her neckline, arms and wrists, with the scent of Sweet Honesty lingering around her, with either a warm sunflower hat or snow cap to compliment the weather.

Selfless. Good-natured. Intelligent. Joyful. Loving. Hard Working. These are just a few of the countless words that can be used to describe what a caring person Ellen was to everyone fortunate enough to have encountered her tender heart. Regardless of where she came from, what she had to endure, and who she came across, Ellen always put forth a helping hand to those who needed it. Whether it be a financial boost, time away to bestow upon assistance, or simply just a friendly smile to light up someone’s day; she would not hesitate. Everlastingly looking after her three sons, and her three daughters in-law: Jeanette, Ava and Sheryl, along with her five grandchildren: Ian, Isa, Ina, Martin and Tina, Ellen was truly remarkable, a profound once-in-a-lifetime soul who, to this day, shall never be forgotten in our hearts.