The dedicated couple has continuously served in Philippine Children’s Mission for 56 straight years. They were there already as incorporators of the orphanage in 1950 and have been serving the lepers’ children ever since in various capacities.
More than 200 children have gone through the parenting of Lolo Fred and Lola Mar. They would say they were strict, but they would quickly add that it was a good thing for them. As such, they have been prepared in facing the tough life because of the wise handling of the elderly couple.
“How they loved and disciplined their own children, they did the same with us. I’m happy I grew up in PCM,” said Loida Gleason, a sponsored child from age 11 up to college graduation, now married and living in USA.
As PCM is in the process of renewing its SEC life by another 50 years, Lolo Fred and Lola Mar, age 78 and 77 respectively, would surely love to be of service still. But the good Lord who started it all has other plans.
February of 2006, Lola Mar was diagnosed with 4-stage lung cancer and things became different in PCM ever since. Lolo Fred had his own bout with prostate cancer as well and had gone through an operation the following year. He was doing fine afterwards. Then Lola Mar, after a cancer treatment for 1 year, had suffered a severe fracture of the back bone (it had been weakened by her cancer). She was bed-ridden since April 2007 and under continuous pain management. She was very weak and unable to help herself even with her simple personal activity. Lolo Fred stayed with her almost all the time. Lola Mar died in St. Lukes Hospital on October 19, 2007.
To all of you who have spent time to pray for healing, for providing funds for hospitalization, medicines, and living expenses, Lolo Fred and Lola Mar can’t thank you enough. You are their constant reminders that God remains to be good, and He will never forsake those who trust in His unfailing love.
