Catarina Ramirez Halbert

Catarina Ramirez Halbert, our beloved mother, passed away peacefully on May 7,2026, at Copper Springs Senior Living in Meridian, Idaho. She was born on November 25, 1939, in Joya de Luna, Cerritos, Mexico, to Apolonio Vigil and Maria Guadalupe Gomez. 

She married Benito Ramirez on December 27, 1959, in Pharr, Texas. After the birth other first son, they moved to Payette, Idaho, where they eventually settled permanently after both found work and built a life together. Benito passed away on April 11, 1986. After his passing, she married Neil Halbert on November 23, 1991, and remained in Payette until Neil passed away on August 9, 2025.

She dedicated 31 years to her work at Ore-Ida, where her strong work ethic, reliability, and pride in her work were evident every day until her retirement in February of 2002.She was known as someone who could always be counted on, approaching each task with determination and care. During her time there, Catarina formed lasting friendships that continued well beyond her retirement—connections built not only through shared work, but through laughter, mutual support, and genuine kindness. Those relationships remained an important and cherished part of her life for many years. 

Catarina was a strong presence in her family—social, engaging, and always ready to strike up a conversation with friends, family, or even someone she had just met. From her children’s earliest memories, she was an incredible worker. Whether in the fields or orchards—hoeing beets, topping onions, picking cherries, or harvesting and packing cantaloupes—she worked long, demanding days, yet always came home to make sure her family had a warm meal. 

Later, while working at Ore-Ida, she created moments her family would never forget. On Friday nights during her swing shift, her children would stay up late just to greet her at the door. She often carried a small snack or treat in her bag, a simple gesture that meant everything before sending them off to bed. 

Her home was always a place of warmth and generosity. She was known for her fresh, warm tortillas and her open table—always ready to feed anyone who walked through the door, no matter how long her day had been. 

Though the family did not have much financially, she made sure her children never felt they were missing out. Whether it was sports, school trips, or everyday opportunities she found a way to provide. Her pride was not in what she had, but in what she gave. Her sacrifices were quiet but powerful, showing her children perseverance, love in action, and the importance of creating a better future for those you love.

 She will be remembered for her spirit, her wisdom, and the way she made others feel seen, supported, and loved. Her legacy lives on in her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all those whose lives she touched. 

Catarina is lovingly remembered by her three sons and daughters-in-law, Benito E. and Catherine Ramirez of Auburn, WA; Jay and Carolyn Ramirez of Touchet, WA; Jesse and Jana Fercho of Boise, ID; and her daughter and son-in-law, Teresa and Bret Dillon of Yakima, WA. She is also survived by her sisters, Inocencia Cindy V. Martinez, Maria S. Valenciano, and Patricia V. Carbajal, as well as her brother, Cruz Valenciano, Jr. Hermemory will also be cherished by her 12 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives she touched over the years. Though she is no longer with us, her love remains—guiding, comforting, and enduring. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Rest in peace, Mom