Josefina's obituary
Born in San Narciso, in the province of Zambales, Philippines, to Francisco Tadena Ramos and Iluminada Calara, Josie received her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of the East in Manila before diving into an exciting and varied career. She worked as a secretary to high level government and military officials, as a stockbroker, as a political campaign treasurer and manager. She was a creative entrepreneur who started and ran several businesses including a custom clothing design and sewing business, interior design service and even a dry cleaners. And through much of her career Josie was also raising four kids, with her husband Jose, all of whom grew up to become successful individuals.
Josie was bold and brave, evidenced by starting up her own businesses and by her and her husband, Joe, picking up their family of four kids and, when she was 42, moving half way around the globe for a new adventure in Canada and landing in Barrie, Ontario.
Her penchant for helping others found her often helping those in need while living in the Philippines, and continued with her involvement in helping her Canadian community through her role as president of the Catholic Women's League in Barrie, Ontario. As well, she did quite a lot to help many relatives and friends.
Josie lived for family gatherings and social get-togethers with friends. She loved parties and loved, even more so, to throw parties. She loved dancing, often cutting a mean fox-trot or tango with her husband Joe, and she really liked to sing (to hymns at Sunday mass and, of course, at any time karaoke was afoot).
In her retirement Josie fell in love with playing the game of mahjong and for many years hosted a lively all day mahjong group a couple times a week, mixing in her love of hosting with her found fascination of friendly competition with these bone tiles on the green velvet of her game table.
Through all that she did, Josie was always well put together, fashionable, and was always found to have beautifully done nails, most often in a stunning red color. She lived a very full life on her own terms, and she touched many lives.
Josie (Mom), you will be missed so much. We love you. Rest in peace and love.
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