Loretta Candela

Loving mother and grandmother, woman of faith

Loretta Mable Candela, a longtime Claremont resident, died on March 6, 2015 at the age of 92. 

She was born on August 4, 1922 in Oklahoma to Bob and Myrtle Anderson.

As an adult, she moved to San Diego where she met her dear husband of 63 years, the late Andrew Candela. Upon marriage, they relocated to Claremont where they resided for almost 60 years.

In addition to raising a family, Mrs. Candela was employed at California State Polytechnic University in Pomona where she was considered a second mother to many of the students. After more than 30 years of service, she retired in 1989. As a lifelong member of Our Lady of Assumption in Claremont, her faith never wavered.

“Loretta will forever be remembered by her beautiful smile and genuine kindness. She was a friend to many and will be deeply missed by all,” family shared. “She is now celebrating in heaven with her savior, Jesus Christ.”

Mrs. Candela was preceded in death by her husband Andrew in 2007 as well as by her son Michael and sister-in-law Pauline. She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law Pat and Jack Sayers and Robin and Jeff Crawford, her son Robert Candela and her grandson David Candela. She is also survived by her brother-in-law Salvatore Candela; her brother-in-law William Candela and his wife Mary; her sister-in-law Antoinette Vanderwende and her husband Leonard, and by many wonderful nieces and nephews. 

A private memorial service will be held at the Riverside National Cemetery.