Wilhelmina Maminta Factora

Wilhelmina “Mina” Maminta Factora, a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away with her family around her on January 31, 2025, in Norwalk, California. Born on November 14, 1935, in Santa Maria Pangasinan, Philippines. Her radiant smile and infectious laughter were her trademarks, and many described her as kind and generous—often putting others’ needs before her own.

With a Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy from the University of Santo Tomas, Wilhelmina dedicated thirty-five years to her career at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) where she met her husband of almost 60 years, Cesar Factora and; also, her closest friends whose lifelong bonds, she nurtured with love and laughter until the time of her passing. With her kind and generous heart, she was always the first to lend a hand or offer a listening ear, making her friends feel like family.

Mina was deeply proud of her family, which includes her beloved daughters, Heinzel and Giezelle; son-in-law Michael Tabalanza; as well as her grandsons, Michael Lorenz (Milo) and Michael Josef (Mijo) Tabalanza who, even in her declining health, never failed to bring smiles and laughter to her days.

Her determination, strength and courage shone through when she decided, later in life, to move to the United States. She and Cesar uprooted their life in Manila leaving behind a stable and good lifestyle to create greater opportunities and better the lives of their daughters and future grandchildren.

Wilhelmina's personality was a blend of friendliness and effortless conversation; once you got to know her, she might just talk your ear off. She cherished the simple moments in life—whether it was watching TV and movies, having engaging conversations, or simply catching up with loved ones. She had a passion for collecting angel figurines, reading celebrity magazines and heartwarming periodicals, immersing herself in the stories of others. 

Mina was the youngest in her family and was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Pablo and Ceferina Maminta, as well as her siblings, including a sister and three brothers who have passed before her, all of whom welcomed her into their everlasting embrace.

Her beloved family invites all who knew her to celebrate her life during Visitation Services at Forest Lawn - Cypress - Hope Chapel on March 2, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM and again on March 5, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

A Funeral Service honoring her life will take place on March 7, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Linus Catholic Church in Norwalk which will then be immediately followed by the burial at Forest Lawn - Cypress.

As we gather to celebrate the life of Wilhelmina Factora, we remember the simple things she treasured and the love she so freely shared. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, dearly missed and never forgotten.