Stella A. Cadena, born July 1929, in Victorville, California, peacefully passed away on May 25, 2025, at the age of 95, in San Bernardino, California. Stella's life was a testament to her unwavering commitment to her community, her family, and her passions.
Throughout her life, Stella dedicated herself to giving back to those around her. Her early involvement with the Roosevelt Elementary PTA during her children's school years marked the beginning of her lifelong dedication to volunteer work. Stella's career at Air Factors was notable for her role as a Union Shop Steward, where she supported and advocated for her colleagues. Her pride in being a member of Image de Las Olympics in the Pacific Northwest was evident, where she passionately supported the Mexican community with tax preparation, mentoring students from kindergarten through 12th grade, and participating in fundraising activities. Her contribution to the multicultural panel aimed at empowering youth was a testament to her belief in the potential of the younger generation.
Upon her return to San Bernardino, Stella further showcased her unwavering commitment to helping youth stay on the path to graduation volunteering with Mount Vernon Youth Accountability Program. Her dedication to this program was recognized in the local newspaper, highlighting her commitment to making a difference.
Stella's vibrant personality was characterized by her love for her creativity in decorating, dressing, and looking as fabulous as she was, most unforgettably for her passion for dancing. Her joy was infectious, and she was often the first to take to the dance floor whenever music played. She had a deep appreciation for mariachi music and was always eager to explore new musical releases.
Stella is survived by her loving children: her son, David Cadena and Marcella Carrillo; and her daughters, Sandie Cadena Foster and Robert Foster, Olivia Monica McGaffey, Nancy Cadena Lawrence and Roni Wilke; her grandchildren Adrian Cadena and Blair Dupruez, Tyler Cadena and Cynthia Martinez, Stacy Foster and Aaron Rosenstein, Lana and Adam Novak, Jeffery and Nikkee McGaffey, Danielle Wells and Javier Villalpando, David and Melissa Gabriel-Lawrence, Zachary Lawrence-Magaña and Tony Magaña-Lawrence and Alyssa and Cody Whitemarsh; great grandchildren Amara and Gavin Wells, Avery and Mila Novak, Silas McGaffey and Bowen Whitemarsh. Her legacy continues through them and the countless lives she touched.
A funeral service will be held on June 27, 2025, at 1:00 pm at Mt. View Cemetery, located at 570 E. Highland, San Bernardino, CA 92404. Family, friends, and all those whose lives were enriched by Stella's presence are invited to celebrate her life and bid farewell.
Stella was a devoted daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. Her loyalty, deep love, and unconditional support were the cornerstones of her relationships. She served as a role model, teaching us to be strong and proud of our identities no matter who we are. As we bid farewell, we hold the image of Stella dancing with great joy and the love she shared with those around her.