Luisa Calderon

Luisa Calderon, affectionately known as "Bela" to her cherished grandsons, peacefully passed away at the age of 97 on Thursday, June 13, 2024, at 1:55 a.m. in Miami, Florida. Born in Cartago, Costa Rica, to Josefa Loria and Manuel Calderon, Luisa immigrated to New York in 1963 at the age of 36, where she built a life filled with love, hard work, and cherished memories.

Luisa was the beloved mother of Martha E. Arias, who predeceased her in 2022 at the age of 75. Martha, born to Luisa and Nicomedes Ramirez, brought immeasurable joy to Luisa’s life from her earliest days. Luisa was a devoted grandmother to her daughter’s sons, Michael Arias of Oklahoma City and Blake Arias of Miami, Florida, whom she adored as her own. Her legacy lives on through her grandsons and her great-grandchildren: Hadassah Arias, age 13 of Oklahoma City; Samuel Arias, age 10 of Oklahoma City; and Asialee Arias, age 4 of Miami, Florida. She is also survived by her son-in-law, Oscar Arias of Miami, Florida; her brother, Herbert Calderon, and his wife, Xinia Calderon of Springfield, Massachusetts; her granddaughter-in-law, Jordan Arias of Oklahoma City; and many beloved nieces and nephews in Costa Rica and the United States.

As the matriarch of the family, Luisa worked tirelessly cleaning homes in New York for over forty years. She was known for her warm spirit and ability to make friends wherever she went. Her great sense of humor brought joy to those around her, especially her great-grandchildren, who delighted in watching animal shows with her and laughing as she cheered for the mouse to “Záfate, Záfate” (run, run) away from danger!

Michael fondly recalls her generosity, especially their trips to Fifth Avenue in New York City and Roosevelt Field Mall in Long Island, where she would treat him to nice clothing and lunch. Luisa’s love and support were evident in her frequent trips to Miami, Florida, to attend Blake’s baseball games and spend holidays together.

Luisa’s cooking was legendary within the family, particularly her homemade biscocho, tortillas, and Costa Rican tamales—a treasured tradition she passed down to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Luisa’s life was a testament to resilience, love, and family. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved her.

A visitation for Luisa will be held Tuesday, June 18, 2024 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Caballero Rivero Sunset, 7355 Ave, Miami, FL 33183. A funeral service will occur Wednesday, June 19, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM, 7355 SW 117 Ave, Miami, FL 33183. An entombment will occur Wednesday, June 19, 2024 from 1:30 PM to 1:45 PM, at Caballero Rivero Dade South Cemetery, 14200 SW 117 Avenue.