In the early morning of September 4, 2017, in West Jordan, Utah, our beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend gave back her gift of life and returned to her Father in Heaven.
Felipa was born to Manuel Perez and Dolores Galegos on May 1, 1928 in La Fe, Pinar del Rio, Cuba. She was one of 10 children. She often enjoyed talking about her loving parents and of a very happy childhood in a small fishing town in Cuba. She married Miguel Erasmos Cuellar, and together had 3 children; Luis, Olivia and Miguel. In the fall of 1966, Felipa and her family immigrated to the United States, finally settling in Chicago, Illinois, where she raised her three children. For many years Felipa worked in the cafeteria of Goudy School, an elementary school in Chicago, Illinois. Felipa was a hard worker with good working ethics and an easy personality that many loved and appreciated. One of her greatest moments came when she became a citizen of the United Stated, she felt great pride in this accomplishment. Later in life, Felipa moved to Salt Lake City, Utah, where she resided until her passing.
Throughout her life, Felipa maintained a sweet and simple demeanor, that won the hearts and trust of many. She was a devout Christian, who showed her faith by living a Christ like life. Her signature gifts were; humility, hard work and a nurturing love for her family, she was truly a sterling mother and grandmother. She was always lovingly referred by her grandchildren as Ita. Felipa enjoyed the simple joys of homemaking, she was a wonderful cook and often blessed her family with her offerings of delicious Cuban dishes, which now are cooked by many of her family. Felipa's unwavering desire and willingness to always serve without expecting anything in return, earned her the love and respect of those who were directly affected by her unconditional love and service.
The last years of her life were difficult and painful. She battled deeply with ill health, but even in this battle she showed her family courage and hope as she fought her last battle well to the end. She reminded us all that the beauty and preciousness of life is not diminished by trials. This beautiful, kind and thoughtful woman will be greatly missed, but her legacy of love and the pure charity of Christ will live in the hearts of her beloved family and those who she touched. So farewell our sweet angel Ita, and until we meet again, please watch over us.
Felipa was preceded in death by her husband Miguel Cuellar, 8 siblings and her loving parents. She is survived by her children; Luis (Mariana), Olivia, Miguel (Joanne), 11 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, 2 sisters, Dolores and Librada, and many loving relatives.
Services for Felipa will be held on Monday, September 11 at 12 o\clock at Larkin Mortuary, located at 260 East South Temple, Salt Lake City. A viewing will be held that morning beginning at 10:30 am. Flowers may be sent to the mortuary.
