Gesren Kate “Keyt” Filarca Montevirgen

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Gesren Kate “Keyt” Filarca Montevirgen

Gesren Kate“Keyt” Filarca Montevirgen

November 8, 1988 – December 15, 2021

Like the northern lights she avidly seeks out, Keyt faded from this world in the awakening light of morning.  On December 15 Keyt passed on in the quiet presence of her husband Edz and their children Bamboo and Coco.  Keyt painted the canvas of her life with the dancing, beating colours of light –  auroras of love, kindness and quiet service, which she generously shared with a vast constellation of family, friends, colleagues and kindred souls. 

Although only 33, Keyt lived a lifetime that illuminated the lives of many.  She was a loving spouse and mother, a caring daughter, a generous friend, a brilliant artist, a creative colleague, a selfless community leader.  She will be greatly missed by Edz, her partner of more than 15 years, their children Bamboo and Coco, her mother Madelaine and father Edward.  To them she was a steadfast anchor, the keeper of balance and a giver of counsel and warmth.  She will also be greatly missed by her grandmothers Victoria and Nieves, half sister Hakyra, uncles, aunts, cousins and other family members.   Keyt was predeceased by her grandfathers Crispin and George, enduring guides in her childhood.

Keyt was born in Pilar, Abra in the Philippines. She grew up in Vigan, Ilocos Sur.  She and her mother moved to Calgary in 2004.  Edz joined her in 2011.  As an artist and leader, Keyt leaves her distinct mark on many Filipino community initiatives, the latest of which is Ditch the Kitch

Thank you Keyt for sharing yourself with us. The images and visuals you created and leave behind – the kalesa, bahay kubo, ice cream cart, calligraphy to name a few – capture the spirit of our Filipino culture, values and traditions. These will constantly remind us of you and what you mean to us. 

Your memory will endure in the gratitude of our hearts.  

For those wishing to console with Keyt’s family, please take note of the following schedules:

Tuesday, December 21, 2021

5:30 pm, Visitation and viewing

6:30-8:30 pm, Celebration of Life  

Venue: Country Hills Crematorium, 11995 16 Street NE, Calgary

Wednesday, December 22, 2021 

12:00–1:00 pm, Pay last respects, Viewing

1:00-2:00 pm, Funeral Mass

Venue: St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church, 541 Silvergrove Drive NW, Calgary  

(Sliver Springs community)

An account has been set up to accept contributions to support Keyt’s family.

Cheques can be made to “Keyt Montevirgen in Trust”. 

Email transfers can be sent to keytmontevirgenintrust@gmail.com

Inquiries can be sent to the same email address.