Anita Candelaria

Candelaria, Anita True to her classy form, Anita Candelaria went out in style to be with Our Lord on Saturday, April 4, 2015, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Albuquerque, NM on November 12, 1936, Anita lived her life devoted to Christ as an active longtime worshiper at Queen of Heaven Catholic Church. Anita was preceded in death by her parents, Ismael and Jennie Contreras. Anita was also preceded in death by her six brothers, Joe Contreras, Fred (Esther) Contreras, Lesman (Melba) Contreras, Adolfo (Dorothy) Contreras, Andy (Josie "Fita") Contreras, and Charles (Mary Lou) Contreras. Anita is survived by her husband of 53 years, Ambrosio Candelaria. Anita is also survived by her children, Leonard (Linda) Candelaria of AZ, Cynthia Contreras of CA, Ambrose "Duke" (Renee') Candelaria of WA, and Adam "Rocky" Candelaria of NM; grandchildren, Jeremiah, Senobia, Andre', Adrian, Vanessa, Leonard Jr., Darcy, Ashleigh, Tim, Lawrence, Jaymie, Melody, Matthew, Steven, Mystica, Cain, and Lil' Rocky; 15 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews, cousins, and other family members. Anita was a family woman who most enjoyed sitting 'round her kitchen table with her family, keeping abreast of their goings on. Anita's love poured out through her delicious enchiladas, and she showed this by embracing all, even if not of her own blood. Anita held dearly to her heart whomever passed through her threshold often saying, "If they wander into your corral, they are yours." Anita was a grandmother to all, including many neighborhood kids who often visited. Anita was notorious for her strong will and quick wit that she affectionately used to keep her family on cue. Proud of her huge, blended family, Anita's legacy will live on through each of those who loved her. Anita's strength and resolve contributed to her long, rich life. The family would like to extend special love and thanks to Anita's caregivers during her brief illness; her loving niece, Linda (Bubbles) and her husband, Richard Metzgar, as well as her lovely granddaughter, Senobia. The rosary will be recited on Sunday, April 12, 4:00 p.m., at FRENCH - University. A memorial mass will be will celebrated on Monday, April 13, 2015, 11:00 a.m., at Queen of Heaven Catholic Church, 5311 Phoenix Ave NE. Interment will follow at Santa Fe National Cemetery in Santa Fe, NM. Please visit our online guestbook for Anita at . FRENCH - University 1111 University Blvd. NE (505) 843-6333