Noemi Villaruz Mendoza

Noemi “Lola” Villaruz Mendoza, 88, died of natural causes at St. Charles Hospital in Bend, OR while on vacation October 13th, 2025. She was born January 4th, 1937 in the barangay (village) Ag-agrao, Santa Maria, Ilocos Sur, Philippines daughter of Augustin Villaruz (father) and Feliza De La Torre (mother).

Noemi attended elementary school then dedicated her passion to farming. Married her hometown sweetheart, Felipe Mendoza (deceased), remained in Ag-agrao until they awaited the petition process into the United States in 1993 and settled in Wapato, WA. They celebrated 53 years of marriage in 2018. During her time in Wapato she continued to dedicate herself to farming, while also being an active grandmother to all her grandchildren. Lola enjoyed family gatherings, attending her grandchildren’s special events and Sunday Mass.

Noemi is survived by her eldest daughter Evelyn Mendoza Velasco (Rexis); her three sons: Francis Mendoza (Mary Anne), RobertMendoza (Emyly), and Felipe Mendoza Jr. (Melchora); one elder sisterMina Villaruz Neal; 38 grand and great grandchildren; and many niecesand nephews.

The viewing will be held from 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Friday October 17th atValley Hills Funeral Home in Wapato. With the Rosary to commence at5 p.m. The service of remembrance mass at 12 p.m. St. Peter ClaverCatholic Church. Immediately followed by reception at the WapatoFilipino Community Hall.