Maria Saloma Calaca

Maria Salomá G. Calaça, a beacon of love and generosity, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2025, in Weston, Florida, at the age of 79. Born on July 8, 1945, in Itapora, Goias, Brazil, Maria, affectionately known as Saloma, was a cherished mother, grandmother, and friend whose vibrant spirit and warm heart left an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Saloma's journey began in the lush landscapes of Brazil, where her passion for education led her to earn a Teaching Certificate from Colegio Maria Auxiliadora in Brasilia. It was in this bustling city that she met the love of her life, Wanderley, at the tender age of 15. Their love story was one for the ages, filled with romance and countless love letters, culminating in a beautiful marriage on January 21, 1967. The couple's adventurous spirit took them to the United States in 1970, following our dad's acceptance into a medical residency program. With courage and determination, Saloma embraced a new life in a foreign land, quickly adapting to the American culture despite the language barrier. The family's roots deepened in Okemos, Michigan, where Saloma and Wanderley raised their three children, Wanderley G. Calaca, William G. Calaca (Gabriela), and Ana Claudia Ihrig (Stephen), and where they spent over four decades surrounded by a community that became an extension of their family. Saloma's legacy is carried on by her adoring grandchildren, Isabella Ihrig, Jonathan Calaca, Giovana Ihrig (Joao), Matthew Calaca, Marina Ihrig, and Luca Ihrig, who will forever cherish the memories of their loving grandmother. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Wanderley, who passed away on January 28, 2021, leaving behind a testament to their enduring love. Throughout her life, Saloma's interests reflected her love for family and culture. She found joy in traveling to Brazil to reconnect with her roots, cooking sumptuous meals that brought people together, and hosting gatherings that were the highlight of many friends' and family members' lives. Her passion for astrology, collecting photos, and preserving memories spoke to her spirited nature and her desire to hold on to the precious moments of life. Saloma's warmth and compassion were the cornerstones of her existence, and she was known for her loving and generous spirit. She had a unique ability to make everyone feel at home, and her presence was a source of comfort and joy. As the famous poet Maya Angelou once said, "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Saloma embodied this sentiment, leaving a lasting impression on the hearts of those she encountered. Her life was a testament to the power of love and the strength of family bonds. Saloma's spirit will continue to inspire and guide us, as her memory remains a guiding light for all who knew her. She will be dearly missed, but her legacy of love, generosity, and spirited joy will live on forever. As we bid farewell to Maria Salomá G. Calaça, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a soul that enriched the lives of many. Her story is one of love, adventure, and unwavering commitment to her family, and it will be told with fondness and admiration for generations to come. Rest in peace, dear Saloma, your memory will be treasured eternally.