Natividad Gatchalian Huertas

Natividad Gatchalian Huertas, a beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully in her own home surrounded by her loved ones in the early morning of October 2, 2025. Born on May 13, 1938, in Umingan, Pangasinan, Naty was the daughter of the late Juanita Rabang Gatchalian and Pedro Gatchalian. She was the cherished sister of Sergio, Manuel, Rico, Paquito, and Esther. Though born in Pangasinan, Naty’s family moved around a lot. They moved to Oriental, Mindoro where Naty eventually met the love of her life.

Naty was the devoted wife of Wilfredo Sr. Huertas. They met when Naty’s family was in Mindoro. They were happily married on December 31, 1953. To this day, her family celebrates and honors their anniversary every year. Eventually her and Wilfredo moved to Real, Quezon where they would claim their roots. She is the loving mother to eight beautiful children: Yolanda, Nonato, Liwayway, Angelito, Wilfredo Jr, Nemia, Mona, and Joel. Her family was the center of her world, and she found joy in their togetherness. She is survived by her children: Yolanda, Nemia, Mona, and Joel.

Naty and her husband, Wilfredo immigrated to the U.S. in 1983. Her first job in the U.S. was a private caregiver. Then she worked as a hotel maid at the Marines Memorial Hotel in downtown San Francisco, and at the same time, she was hired at Laguna Honda Hospital at the Linen Department. She was number 1 in the civil service exam for the position of Linen Supervisor and was then promoted. After 20 years of work, she retired as the Head Supervisor in the Linen Department at Laguna Hospital, City and County of San Francisco.

Naty had a variety of interests that brought her happiness. She was an avid sports fan, particularly enjoying baseball and basketball with her husband. Her favorite teams were the San Francisco Giants and the Golden State Warriors. A deeply religious person, Naty faithfully attended worship services twice a week every week. She led an active lifestyle, walking around her neighborhood, watering her plants, and dancing around in her living room. But her ultimate favorite pastime was spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Naty had a fondness for music and dancing. She loved attending concerts of all her favorite artists, and all her favorite artists loved meeting her as well. She was an amazing cook, and she loved cooking for her family. She loved sharing her Ilocano culture with her family. Her specialties included igado and papaitan. Naty was immensely wise and business-minded. Having no formal education, she taught herself in various topics such as English and finances. She was always willing to learn more, and she kept her mind sharp with sudoku and crossword puzzles.

Naty always wanted to help out her family, friends, and loved ones. From her brothers and sisters and their families to her cousins and her kababayan, Naty was always willing to provide for others. Natividad’s warmth, generosity, and unwavering faith will be deeply missed by all who knew her. She was the embodiment of grace and love. Her legacy lives on through her family, her faith, and the many lives she touched.