Candida Padua Cardones

Candida Teresita Padua Cardones, affectionately known as Iday, peacefully passed away on March 4, 2024 at the age of 95. She was born on October 3, 1928, in San Juan, La Union, Philippines, the beloved second child among eight children to Guillermo Padua and Raymunda Ganaden Andaya.

Iday's journey was marked by resilience and dedication for her family. In 1951, she achieved a Nursing degree in Baguio City, Philippines, setting the stage for her remarkable career. She left for the United States on October 22, 1957, where she embarked on a seven-year tenure as an operating room nurse in New York. Her dedication not only contributed to her professional growth but also provided invaluable support to her siblings, assisting them through their educational pursuits.

In 1958, fate brought her into the path of Vicente Lampria Cardones, a U.S. Coast Guard, whom she married. Together, they welcomed three children into their lives: Arthur James, Marie Therese also known as Sasi, and Noel. However, tragedy struck the family when Vicente passed away in 1965, leaving Iday to raise their three children single-handedly. She then made the decision to return to Baguio where she obtained another bachelor's degree, this time in Commerce.

After her children reached adulthood, Iday ventured back to the United States, where she resumed her career in nursing. Her expertise led her to serve as a Director of Nursing at multiple hospitals until her retirement in 1993. In 2000, she returned to the Philippines, accompanied by her daughter Sasi and grandson Josh. However, she would return again to the U.S. in 2005 where she resided in San Diego with Sasi and Josh until she passed.

Throughout her life, Iday was admired for her strength and unwavering commitment to her family. Her legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her. She is survived by her children, Arthur James (wife Luchie), Sasi, Noel, and grandchildren Candice, Arvi, Josh, James, Miko, and Lee. Iday's presence will be dearly missed but her spirit will continue to inspire and guide those who were touched by her. She passes on the secret to living up to 95 years old — MAHJONG! She always said it kept her from going senile!

A visitation for Candida will be held Sunday, March 17, 2024 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Chapel of the Roses, 3838 Bonita Road, Bonita, CA 91902. A funeral service will occur Sunday, March 17, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Chapel of Roses, 3838 Bonita Road, Bonita, CA 91902. A graveside service will occur Sunday, March 17, 2024 from 2:00 PM to 2:30 PM at Glen Abbey Memorial Park, 3838 Bonita Road, Bonita, CA 91902.