With deep sadness, the Lanquibo family shares that Emma (or Emy), age 67 years, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was born to the late Teofilo and Lucena Sabandal on October 24, 1958, in Surigao City, Philippines.
On March 29, 1979, Emma married her soulmate Vilvergo. They moved to Canada with their daughter Velle and son Vel Mhark, arriving in Thunder Bay in October 1986. A year later, they welcomed twin boys Lou and Lee into their family.
Emma graduated from Andres Soriano College in the Philippines with a Bachelor of Science in Commerce focusing on Banking and Finance. Sadly, her degree wasn’t recognized in Canada which disappointed her greatly. However, she didn’t let that stop her from finding work to support her family. Emma worked for Zellers for 23 years until it closed in 2013. She was a sales floor associate and merchandiser who brought positivity to everyone around her; earning several awards for Outstanding Customer Service Employee. Later on, she also worked at Sears, Party City, and Mark’s Work Warehouse.
Emma loved experimenting with new recipes, knitting, gardening, and watching movies with family. Time spent with close friends and immediate family always brought her joy. Family road trips, camping adventures, fishing outings, and picnics were some of their best moments together.
Emma was a caring mother who taught her children the value of honesty and hard work. Her beautiful smile could light up any room and her laughter was contagious. Even as her health declined over time she remained positive.
When diagnosed with kidney disease in 2021 followed by an incurable blood cancer in 2022 it really tested the family’s faith in God. Nevertheless, Emma and her husband continued praying the rosary; they would watch mass online through You Tube led by Father Ciano Ubod back home in the Philippines.
Though immunocompromised Emma showed remarkable strength surviving multiple serious infections over the past five years; some even while hospitalized already. She never missed a dialysis session during sickness nor did she stop chemotherapy once she felt better. Emma could have opted out of treatments at any point but chose not to leave behind her kids especially after losing their Dad two years ago while he was in ICU care. Last summer was tough for Emma but since November 2025 she had been doing well at home without any infections for eight months.
Her daughter Velle Gosselin would visit whenever possible bringing dinner along to catch up together. Emma cherished listening to Velle’s stories while reminiscing about happier times from the past.
Lou often surprised his mom with thoughtful gifts aimed at making things easier or more comfortable for her which made Emma incredibly thankful for his kindness. Spending quality time with Lou and his dog Tuko brightened up her days.
Lee would drop by occasionally to help fix things around their home which she greatly appreciated as well. The arrival of Eli-their first grandchild-brought immense joy into Emma’s life giving her extra motivation to keep fighting through treatments.
Vel Mhark-her eldest son-dedicated himself fully towards caring both for his mom as well as his Dad during these difficult times witnessing how challenging it all had become for them both emotionally drained him deeply too; yet he always tried cheering up his mom when needed most despite everything going on around them feeling helpless sometimes seeing firsthand how rapidly she’d deteriorate losing independence over time gradually took its toll too making matters worse knowing this wasn’t easy especially after playing a song featuring Vilvergo’s voice sung just for them near end stage comforting each other amidst hardship endured daily finally finding solace there somehow together still bonding closely throughout every struggle faced bravely along way onward pushing forward resiliently united forever stronger than ever before now resting peacefully side-by-side reunited again eternally free from pain no longer suffering anymore either..
Emma will always be loved deeply missed remembered fondly by everyone whose lives she’s touched throughout journey lived here sharing countless memories created along way lasting eternally within hearts forevermore living on vibrantly through love shared unconditionally between those remaining behind today left grieving sorely yet celebrating life lived fully embraced warmly instead passing gracefully onward onto next adventure awaiting ahead..
She is predeceased by dear parents Teofilo & Lucena alongside adoring husband Vilvergo while survived fondly now only daughter Velle Gosselin plus sons Vel Mhark Lou Lee (Katrina) grandson Eli growing strong each day carrying forth legacy alive moving forward proudly keeping spirit shining brightly amongst us all still continuing onward cherishing memories shared endlessly everlasting evermore..
Thanks goes out sincerely towards everyone sending condolences sympathy cards gifts kind gestures displayed openly heartfelt meaning held dearly wishing comfort found midst sorrow experienced collectively felt deeply amongst community gathered here today showing support reaching out offering assistance wherever needed lending helping hands uplift spirits gently lifting burdens heavier upon shoulders worn down exhausted needing love nurturing within arms embrace protective warm shelter allowing healing take place gently offered freely surrounding embrace existing bonds forged cherished tightly woven carefully forming togetherness united forever closer regardless distance separating otherwise apart physically present spiritually connected heartstrings strumming harmoniously united sing sweet melodies echoing through eternity softly resonating lasting chords ringing true singing songs reliving precious moments shared everlasting unity formed across distances overcoming barriers interwoven intertwining souls intertwined beautifully crafted tapestry woven rich full filled warmth kindness generosity bestowed upon fellow beings radiating positive energy abundant life flourishing blossoming abundantly spreading wide infectious delight joy happiness mirthfulness illuminating brighter paths walking journeys ahead filled promise fulfillment dreams realized manifesting visions exploring limitless horizons boundless possibilities achieved wondrous realms encountered transcending earthly limitations breaking free soaring skyward liberated exploring wonders awaiting discovery seeking enlightenment truth illuminating journey enlightening souls uplifting beyond comprehension experience limitless beauty essence magnificently splendid spectacular wondrous unfolding constantly revealing magnificent truths unveiling profound mysteries unveiling deeper meanings fascinating unfolding narratives captivating hearts minds inviting participation engagement dialogue fostering understanding connections expanding awareness embracing diversity inclusivity nourishing growth development flourishing blossoming harmonious symbiotic relationships thriving nurturing communities cultivating collaboration cooperation strengthening ties weaving intricate patterns binding humanity together celebrating uniqueness honoring individuality creating vibrant tapestry rich cultural fabric reflecting richness variety hues shades textures colors beautifully intertwined coexistence facilitating peaceful interactions bridging divides fostering harmony nurtured kindness understanding compassion empathy respect welcoming acceptance encouraging openness curiosity promoting dialogue leading transformative experiences personal collective growth enlightenment awakening consciousness igniting passions encouraging creativity innovation forging pathways progression unlocking potential unleashing greatness inspiring change revolutionizing lives shaping futures transforming societies positively impacting world…
“If tears could build a stairway, and memories a lane,
I’d walk right up to Heaven and bring you home again” – Author unknown Condolences may be made through www. nwfainc. com
I’d walk right up to Heaven and bring you home again” – Author unknown Condolences may be made through www. nwfainc. com
