Bertha Candelaria

Bertha C. Candelaria, age 72, passed away March 3, 2014 in Surprise, Az. Bertha was born September 11, 1941 in Ray, Arizona to Salvador and Carmen Contreras. She was raised and attended schools there. Following her schooling she began working in Phoenix at the Arizona Industrial Commission during that time she met Tom Candelaria and they were married in 1967 making their home in Mesa. She later continued her education and began teaching. She worked in both the Mesa and Wickenburg School Districts. In 1989 Bertha retired for health reasons. She was a member of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church and very active in the Church having served on the Parish Council and also was a member of the Martha's Circle having served as President at one time. She also served as a Eucharistic Minister at the Church. Bertha enjoyed traveling and after retiring she and husband Tom traveled extensively. She was preceded in death by her parents Salvador & Carmen Contreras and sister Eva Rivera and brother Salvador Contreras. She is survived by her husband Tom of Wickenburg, daughter Lissa (Lucky) Kirkendoll of Buckeye, son Nick (Gina) Candelaria of Scottsdale, grandchildren: Baylee & Garrett Kirkendoll, sisters Lupe Lira and Isabelle Ramon both of Mesa and brothers: George, Ronnie, Art, Rey and Eddie Contreras and numerous nieces and nephews. Rosary will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2014 at 10:00 AM followed by Funeral Mass at 10:30 AM at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Wickenburg.