Eva Chade Carpenter

October 11, 1926 – May 20, 2020

Eva (Chade) Carpenter, born on October 11, 1926, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 20, 2020, at age 93. Eva was born in Mexicali, Mexico, to Lebanese immigrants, Edward & Alma Chade of Douma, Lebanon. Her family immigrated to California in 1937 and lived in Fillmore & Los Angeles. Right before the war, they settled in San Juan Capistrano, where she graduated from Capistrano Union High School in 1946. In 1948 she married Ross Dudley, from Hibbing Minnesota, and settled in San Juan Capistrano. The couple moved to Santa Ana in 1950, where they purchased their first home. In 1953 Steven, their son, was born, and in 1955 their daughter Kathryn was born. In wanting to start their electrical contracting business, the couple moved to Capistrano Beach in 1959 to open R. C. Electric. Eva worked hand in hand with her husband and managed the front office until they closed their business in 1980.

Eva participated and joined many organizations in the area. She especially enjoyed local philanthropy work through “The Woman’s Club of San Juan Capistrano,” and served two terms as President. Eva started the Swallow’s Day Pancake Breakfast during her first presidency and was a major fundraising event for the Woman’s and Rotary Club for over 58 years. Eva was also active in I.B.E.W. Local #441, Women’s Axillary; the founding President of “The George Gershwin Chapter,” and first Assistant Treasurer of the Orange County Performing Arts Center (OCPAC), also known as the Segerstrom Center for the Performing Arts.

Eva loved her family and treasured every moment with Alexander, her grandson. She shared her love and talents of cooking, gardening & crafts with family & friends. Eva was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ross Dudley, brother George and loving parents; and is survived by her siblings Eleanor Wackeen, and Leo Chade. Eva is also survived by her son Steven, wife Linda, daughter Kathryn, grandson Alexander, wife Ethel, and a future great-grandchild.

The family wishes to express their deep gratitude to Josie, Maria & their teams for the loving care they provided their Mother. Due to COVID-19, a private family service will be held in loving memory at Pacific View Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers or donations, the family kindly requests your generosity and kindness be given to those in need during these times.