It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Matilde Rosa Racines de Bolaños, at the age of 94. Matilde was born in the vibrant city of Quito, Ecuador, on November 12, 1931. A loving sister, devoted wife, cherished mother, and adoring grandmother, Matilde's life was a testament to love and dedication.

From childhood, she shared a special bond with Dr. Vicente Bolivar Bolaños, whom she would later marry, at the age of 30. Their enduring love story spanned 64 beautiful years and was blessed with three daughters: Mercedes, Patricia, and Rusia. Together, Matilde and Vicente made their home in Quito before embarking on a new chapter in California, USA, where she peacefully passed away on April 9, 2025.

Matilde's heart radiated warmth and devotion to her family. Her eyes would light up with pure joy in the presence of her seven grandchildren: Natalie, Avo, Alissa, Ayleen, Arath, Giselle, and Emily. She possessed a deep appreciation for the arts, finding pleasure in reading, expressing herself through painting, and nurturing the beauty of her garden alongside her beloved husband.

Our mother poured her heart into creating a warm and nurturing home for us. Losing her parents at an early age, did not keep her from becoming independent. Matilde pursued her passions, taking classes in painting, nursing, pastry, and manual arts. She skillfully crafted breathtaking three-dimensional paintings and created magnificent works in copper, and plaster. These artistic treasures are cherished and preserved with deep affection in our homes to this day, a testament to her creative spirit and her desire to enrich our lives with beauty.

A passionate advocate for education, Matilde instilled in her children and grandchildren the values of discipline and responsibility, always encouraging them to pursue their dreams with determination. Her profound faith in God, the Virgin Mary, and her deep devotion to Ecuador's patron saint, La Virgen Dolorosa, were undeniable pillars of her life.

Matilde approached every endeavor with remarkable enthusiasm. She was known for her perfectionism, her unwavering perseverance, and her resilient spirit, qualities that undoubtedly enriched the lives of those around her.

Mom, you always possessed a heart overflowing with gratitude for every blessing in your life. Following your beautiful example, it is we who are profoundly grateful to God for bestowing upon us a mother like you. Thank you for your dedication, your boundless love, your inner strength, your thoughtful prudence, your guiding wisdom, and especially for your steadfast faith. Thank you for the countless small and grand gestures of love you shared with your family and with all those whose lives you touched.

Matilde is lovingly survived by her children, Mercedes, Patricia, and Rusia; her sons-in-law, Melik Kurdoghlian and Jorge Latorre; and her seven cherished grandchildren.

Our dear mother departed this world peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family, and we are certain she felt immense gratitude for the many blessings in her life. As she often repeated the opening lines of her favorite song:

"Gracias a la vida que me ha dado tanto..." (Thanks to life that has given me so much...)

Mom, your legacy of unwavering faith and boundless love will forever remain etched in our hearts.

Funeral Service

Thursday, May 1st

Mass: 10am, St. Andrews Catholic Church

311 N Raymond Ave, Pasadena.

Interment: 12:30pm, Rose Hills Memorial Park

3888 Workman Mill Rd, Whittier.