Ida Valentina Calderon Contreras passed away after a sudden illness on April 23, 2024, with family by her side.
She was born on Feb. 14, 1945, in Casa Grande, Arizona, to parents Francisco and Catalina Calderon. Ida attended Hayden High School where she met future husband, Esmael R. “Junjo” Contreras. After high school graduation in 1963, Ida studied cosmetology, and, in 1964, she and Junjo married and started their family. Their 26-year union produced four children.
Ida later returned to Casa Grande and worked in Food Service at Casa Grande Regional Hospital for the next 20 years until her retirement. Over the years, Ida enjoyed pastimes such as cooking, studying nutrition, gardening, music, crocheting, traveling, watching novellas, and taking care of her beloved dogs, Jojo, and Chico. By far, her greatest joy was spending time with friends and family and keeping up with her grandkids.
She is survived by children, Cisco (Adrien), Rick, Joyce (Theodoro) and Manny. Her siblings include Frankie Calderon (Gracie), Yolanda Calderon, Joey Calderon, and Paul Calderon (Belen). Ida is adored by her numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by parents Francisco and Catalina Calderon, and dear brother Jesse whose memories always remained in her heart.
Ida will be most remembered for her overwhelming love, kindness, nurturing spirit, faith in God, and compassion to everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Her love of life, bright smile, infectious laugh, comforting presence, and involvement in the everyday lives of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren will be cherished forever.