Melecia Sotelo Berdoz, age 78, passed away suddenly yet peacefully on the morning of September 20, 2026, at her home in Wichita, Kansas, surrounded by her loving family who dearly miss her. She was born on December 18, 1947, in Dalimag, Pilar, Abra, Philippines, where her life began in the close-knit rural community that shaped her strength, humility, and devotion to family.

On December 14, 1962, Melecia married Alfredo Berdoz at Our Lady of the Pillar in Lumabra, Villaviciosa, Abra. Together they built a life marked by hard work, perseverance, and deep love. Their family grew quickly: while living in Dalimag, San Isidro, Abra, they welcomed their eldest sons, Francisco “Sonny” and Joseph. After moving to Calamba, Laguna, their daughter Victoria and son Mario were born. Their youngest daughter, Julieta, was born after the family relocated to Grace Park, Caloocan City, Manila.

Melecia and Alfredo later returned to San Isidro, Abra, where they worked the family farm and continued the traditions of their parents and grandparents. Eventually, they settled again in Bucal, Calamba, Laguna, where they lived for more than a decade and raised their children into adulthood.

On September 29, 1998, Melecia’s beloved husband Alfredo passed away, a loss she carried with quiet strength and enduring faith.

Seeking family and new beginnings, Melecia traveled to the United States in May of 2002, to reside with her daughter Juliet and son‑in‑law Mark in Wichita, Kansas. Their home became her home for the next 24 years, filled with love, shared meals, stories of the Philippines, and the everyday joys she cherished. She remained with them until her peaceful passing.

Melecia is preceded in death by her parents, Lucio and Emeteria Sotelo; sisters Lourdes, Librada, and Maria; her husband Alfredo Berdoz; and her sons Francisco “Sonny,” Joseph, and Mario.

She is survived by her brother Alberto Sotelo; sister Rosita Aquino; daughters Victoria Berdoz and Juliet Appier (Mark); and her grandchildren: — From Francisco: Santanina “Ihna” and Farrah — From Mario: Ronillo and Mharcel — From Victoria: Kenneth and John Mark “JM” — From Juliet: Allen Appier, Marcus, and Joseph

She is also survived by her great‑grandchildren from Ronillo: Jhenela, Sabrina, Cassandra Gail, and Julia.

Melecia will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her unwavering love for her children and grandchildren, her quiet humor, and her deep devotion to family. Her life was a testament to perseverance, faith, and the enduring strength of a mother’s love. Her absence leaves a profound void, but her memory will continue to bless all who knew her.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 4:00 p.m., at Anchor Baptist Church, 14704 E. Harry, Wichita, KS 67230.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Anchor Baptist Church, designated for the youth and children’s classrooms.