Carmen Pena

With love in our hearts, we mourn the passing of our loving and caring wife, grandmother, sister, friend, Carmen Pena. Having lost her battle with cancer, Carmen passed away on Friday morning, Sept. 23, 2011, at the age of 60.

Through her illness, Carmen exhibited a quiet and steady courage that was truly inspirational. Cancer may have taken her life but it can never take her loving and shining spirit. She had so many friends and never met a stranger. Carmen's memory will be treasured by all of us who were blessed to know this remarkable woman. We will miss her presence, but we are comforted in knowing she is free of pain and has now walked into the open arms of Our Heavenly Father, alongside her family and friends who were all waiting to greet her.

Carmen's favorite Saint was St. Jude Thaddeus, the patron saint of hope. We turn to St. Jude in times of need and for serious or seemingly hopeless causes (including grieving) - and ask for his divine intercession. In accordance with his surname, Thaddeus (which means generous, courageous, kind), Our Lord said, "He will show himself most willing to give help." That we know is true for Our Beloved Carmen... always willing to give help.

Carmen spent a great portion of her life giving, not only to her family, but also in her faithful and devoted Christian service to Santa Clara Church, Santa Clara Elementary School, Santa Clara High School, and a host of other community service organizations which brought joy to the community and great fulfillment to her.

We ask that you continue to keep Carmen's family in your loving thoughts and prayers: her husband of 41 years - Rodolfo (Rudy); daughter - Adriana; grandsons - Robert, Bryan and Nikolas; 3-month old great-grandson - Bobby; mother - Carmen Trevizo; brothers - Santiago, Jorge, Cesar, and Robert; sister - Viola. There is so much that should be said to them at this time, but no words seem adequate. May Our Loving Father and Blessed Mother grant them (and you) the special comfort in knowing that Carmen (and all she meant to each of us), will remain in our hearts forever. May she rest in everlasting peace.

The Memorial Service Honoring the Life of Our Beloved Carmen Pena will be held at Santa Clara Church at 323 South E Street, Oxnard. All are welcome to attend the memorial and celebration of this great woman's life: Friday, Sept. 30, 2011: 3:30 p.m. -- Recitation of the Rosary 4:00 p.m. -- Mass of Christian Burial, Msgr. Rev. Jon Majarucon officiating 5:00 p.m. -- Reception (immediately following mass) The reception will take place at the School Auditorium of Santa Clara Elementary School, 324 South E Street.

Arrangements under the direction of Funeraria del angel Conrad's & James Reardon, Oxnard, CA.