Written by AARON CASTREJON CityWatch Editor DUARTE - City officials just announced the death of Mayor Pro Tem Tzeitel Paras-Caracci.
Caracci, 49, died after a battle with fourth-stage lung cancer June 25 at her home. She was surrounded by family, according to the City of Duarte. Caracci endured a three-year battle with cancer. She credited her longevity to the doctors at City of Hope National Medical Center, according to the City of Duarte. A Philippines native and Duarte High School graduate, Caracci was first elected to Duarte City of Council in 2001. She served as mayor in 2006, 2011, 2015 and 2019. During her time as a public servant, Caracci also served on a number of local boards and organizations, such as the League of California Cities, director for the Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts, Foothill Transit board member, Duarte Community Coordinating Council and was elected by her colleagues to the National League of Cities Board of Directors, according to the City of Duarte. Caracci recently served as president of the Asian Pacific American Municipal Officials. She also initiated the Mayor’s Youth Council. “We have suffered a huge loss in our city and I am profoundly saddened as Tzeitel was an immensely capable member of our Council, as well as a great personal friend to me, as well as many others. Her smile and energy were infectious, and it was an honor to serve on Council with her,” said Mayor Margaret Finlay. “On behalf of the Council and City Staff, we express our condolences to her family and offer our full support in this time of need.” Caracci is survived by her parents, Lino and Russel Paras, husband, K.C. Caracci, stepdaughter Blake Caracci, son, Jack Russell, her brothers Bertrand and John Paul George and their wives. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking those that wish to honor Tzeitel Paras-Caracci to donate to the City of Hope. Read the full city statement here. |
Archives
October 2023
Categories
All
|