Ruth L. Cardenas

Ruth L. Cardenas passed peacefully on February 12, 2026, with her children and grandchildren by her side. Born on October 3, 1930, in Pala, CA, Ruth was preceded in death by her loving parents Miguel and Vicenta Ledesma, her siblings Mike, Joe, Alfred, and Lupe and her beloved son Dean. She is survived by her children, Joann, Gene and his partner Manny, Helen and her spouse Maria, Dean Sr’s wife, Veronica, along with ten beautiful grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Ruth spent over thirty years in government services, where she climbed the ladder and rose to manager - something very uncommon during that time. She worked tirelessly, raising her four children while helping care for her mother, working nights and taking college classes - all to provide a stable and secure future for her family. Our ‘Grandma’ was the epitome of class and kindness – a true role model for our family to emulate. She loved to travel, enjoyed her music, singing and shouting out her grito, dancing and reading. She cherished her crossword puzzles and her daily walks around the golf course. She loved her beautiful brick home, which was a welcoming place for all. Most of all, she loved her family. She leaves behind a legacy of love, memories to last a lifetime, and a beautiful example of a life well lived. She was intentional, smiling when she could no longer speak and holding your hand and kissing it when she could no longer hug. She will be greatly missed but will live on in our hearts and minds forever.