Cristina Sunga Mantell

Cristina “Tinette” Sunga Mantell (fka Tuazon Sprague), a beloved Family Nurse Practitioner and a pillar of the Filipino community in San Francisco, passed away on June 28, 2024, at the age of 66. Born on June 5, 1958, in the Philippines, Cristina's journey was marked by dedication, love, and a profound commitment to the well-being of others.

Cristina earned her Master of Science in Nursing from UCLA and dedicated her professional life to serving the community as a Nurse Practitioner at the South of Market Health Center in San Francisco for over 30 years, Kaiser Permanente in Walnut Creek, and Sutter Solano Medical Center in Vallejo. Known for her selflessness and unwavering dedication, Cristina always put others before herself, providing compassionate care to her patients and touching countless lives with her kindness and generosity.

As the matriarch of her family, Cristina was the heart and soul of her household. She deeply loved her children, Austin Sprague and Angelica Bergum, nurturing them with love and instilling in them the values of compassion and respect. They spoke everyday and cherished their special bond and closeness. Cristina shared a beautiful life with her husband, Andrew Mantell, with whom she enjoyed 11 wonderful years. Together, they created a loving home in Fair Oaks, CA, filled with joy and laughter.

Cristina had a deep love for traveling and gardening, finding immense joy in cultivating a garden rich with over 42 fruit trees and multiple species of plants and flowers. Her green thumb was legendary, and plants always thrived under her care. Alongside her husband, Andy, and their beloved labrador retriever, Mayim, Cristina enjoyed many adventures, including camping trips in their Airstream.

Her vibrant personality was a source of joy to all who knew her. Cristina was often seen dancing to 50’s music, laughing, and smiling while wearing bright colors and floral patterns. Fearless and strong, she exuded confidence and lived her life with a zest that inspired everyone around her. Outside of work, she could often be found with a flower in her hair, dancing to loud music, cooking for her family, cutting up fruit, playing with her pets, or watering her plants.

Cristina is survived by her loving children and grandchild, Austin Sprague, Angelica (Dane) Bergum and their soon-to-be-due child, and Ahna Maglinti, and her devoted husband, Andrew Mantell, and a community that deeply cherished her presence. Her legacy of love, care, and joy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know her.

A celebration of Cristina’s life will be a private event held in Sacramento, CA on Sunday, July 21st, 2024. If you know the family, please contact them for further details to attend. Or if you would like to honor her giving spirit and her love for animals, please donate to the SPCA in her name. 

Rest in peace, Cristina Sunga Mantell. Your light will continue to shine brightly in the lives of those you loved and served.