Celestino Candelaria

Our beloved Celestino Candelaria gained his wings in heaven on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, in his home at the age of 101 surrounded by his children. Please take a moment and share a kind thought or memory with Celestino’s family at www.andersonbethany.com. Celestino was a distinguished World War II veteran, Technician Fifth Grade (Tec 5). Serving in the U.S. Army from June 1943 to October 1945, he was a dedicated rifleman and truck driver with Troop B, 18th Cavalry Reconnaissance—Mechanized. His courageous contributions as a scout during the Ardennes (Battle of the Bulge), Rhineland, and Central Europe campaigns were marked by his exceptional skill as a marksman with both the rifle and carbine. His exemplary service earned him the Army Good Conduct Medal, the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal. As we remember his contributions, we honor his unwavering resolve and the profound impact he made during a pivotal time in history. His memory will continue to inspire and remind us of the sacrifices made for the freedoms we cherish today There will be a Rosary at St. Peter’s Church on Thursday, August 29, 2024, at 9:30 a.m., with a Funeral Mass to follow at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at McBride Cemetery. On October 16, 1922, Celestino was born to Jose Candelaria and Isidra Sanchez in Arabella, New Mexico. Celestino married Josefita Moya on July 23, 1942, in Greenlee, Arizona. He had a large family and many friends that will miss him deeply. Those left to eternally treasure and cherish memories of Celestino are his children: Isidora Martinez (spouse Pablo Martinez), Rosie Pacheco (spouse Israel Pacheco – deceased), Rudy Candelaria (partner Irene Gonzales), Rick Candelaria, Roy Candelaria (partner Mark Gingras), Mel Candelaria (spouse Eric Lochausen), and Terri Candelaria (partner Shannon Crothers); 20 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; 25 great-great-grandchildren; and sibling, Arcenia Lucero. Celestino is preceded in death by his wife, Josefita Candelaria; son, Manuel Candelaria; grandchildren: Celeste Pacheco - Gonzales, and Chris Candelaria; great granddaughters: Anna Ruiz and Devin Candelaria whom he now joins in Heaven. Honored to serve as Pallbearers are his children: Isidora, Rosie, Rudy, Rick, Roy, Mel and Terri Candelaria: and blessed to be chosen as Honorary Pallbearers are all his grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, Celestino’s family suggests donations be made to the Gift of Sight in honor of Celestino. The family of Celestino would like to give special thanks to Sylvia Jimenez, Erma Gonzalez, Naomi Dominguez and Evelyn Alonso for their loving care. Celestino’s tribute was lovingly written by his family.

Celestino Candelaria

October 16, 1922 - August 21, 2024