Remembering Carina

Carina Mae Orozco Owens made her heavenly ascent on May 31, 2024 after battling Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma (ACC), a rare and incurable form of salivary gland cancer.

She was a devoted wife and mother, a beloved daughter, sister, cousin, auntie, niece and friend. Born in San José, California, Carina will always be remembered for her loving and caring nature, her unwavering devotion to friends and family, her vibrant spirit, infectious humor, and the way she lit up the room and lifted those around her.

She worked for the City of San José for over 18 years, sharing her love for the outdoors with youth and creating economic opportunities for the underserved. Her leadership, contributions and impact touched many lives as a dedicated mentor and social justice advocate who worked on behalf of students, seniors and veterans while being involved with Filipino and Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) organizations, including Kappa Psi Epsilon, Sister-to-Sister and LEAD Filipino, where she mentored young at-risk women and imbued the values of sisterhood.

Carina was fiercely independent, and at the same time gave herself completely to those she loved. Never at a shortage of one-liners, impersonations and wisecracks, her impromptu dance-offs and reenactments would have our friends and family clutching our sides with uncontrollable laughter. She was truly a special person, who reliably provided support, a listening ear or guidance whenever it was needed. She will be missed and cherished forever.

Carina is survived by her husband Michael and their 3-year-old son Owen, her parents Rose and Eric Vigdor and Cesar Orozco, her siblings Rod and Brandon, her sisters Briana and Elena, her in-laws Mike Sr. and Millie, her Adventure Girls, Gel, Agnes, Genevieve and Jessica and many more friends and family.

Her friends and family have established the Carina Mae Owens Scholarship Fund and #CarinaMaeScholars to ensure her legacy lives on.