Dorothy L. Cadena

Dorothy L. Cadena passed away on Monday, December 9, 2024, at the age of 69.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Henry “Hank” Cadena; father Ignacio “Nash” Nuanes; cousin Michael Gutierrez; and nephew Nicholas Tapia.

Dorothy is survived by her two sons: Henry Cadena (Caren), Dominic Cadena; mother Maria Eloisa Nuanes; siblings: Dee Nuanes, Jerry Nuanes (Susan), Jean Salazar (Sam), Joyce Tapia (Vidal), Ronald Nuanes, Liz Alarcon (Adrian), Georgianna Aragon (Fernando); nieces and nephews: Monica Nuanes, Paul Nuanes (Monique), Vanessa Arballo (Jose), Raquel Alarcon, Adrian Nuanes (Jennifer), Angela Tapia, Ryan Nuanes, Sammy Salazar, Chelsea Alarcon, Audie Nuanes, Cassandra McKay, Aiden Aragon, and Iliana Aragon; great-nieces and great-nephews: Nolan Tapia-Patton, Arianna Arballo, Ava Nuanes, Aleah Arballo, Elaine Alarcon, Adam Salazar, and Annalise Arballo.

Dorothy, born on June 16, 1955, lived a life of unwavering devotion to her faith, family, and enjoyed the simple things in life. Described by many as loving and kind, her selflessness was her hallmark, always putting the needs of others before her own. She wanted nothing more than to be a caregiver for her husband “Hank,” father Ignacio and mother Eloisa. Her devotion to them was constant with her home being a sanctuary of warmth and love as she was a continual source of strength and comfort, always ready with a listening ear, a helping hand, and a love that knew no limits.

Dorothy also had an eye for beauty and sparkle, which was reflected in her love for gardening and shopping for holiday and home decor. Her home was a testament to her taste, always adorned with things that sparkled or radiated beauty. When asked about her favorite food, the answer was quick and easy – “New Mexican food”. Los Compadres was her favorite spot and she found happiness in enjoying her favorite dishes there with other loved ones. However, Dorothy's greatest pride was her two sons. She rooted passionately for any sports team they supported, showcasing her support not only in their hobbies but in all of their endeavors. Their achievements were her achievements; their happiness, her happiness.

As a Cadena, we often think of family as a strong chain, with each link representing a beloved member. Today, another link has been broken, leaving an undeniable void. But even though Dorothy is no longer part of this world , the love she shared with us, the memories we hold dear, and the values she instilled in us will forever remain, strengthening the bonds between us. Her legacy of love and care will forever be woven into the fabric of our family.

Dorothy’s Life Celebration will begin with a viewing on Friday, December 20, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, located at 1860 Griegos Road NW, 87107. The Rosary will be recited at 10:30 a.m., and Mass will follow at 11:00 a.m. Dorothy will be laid to rest following the Mass at Mount Calvary Cemetery, located at 1900 Edith Blvd NE, 87102.

Pallbearers will be Paul Nuanes, Adrian Nuanes, Jerry Nuanes, Ronald Nuanes, Jose Arballo and Adrian Alarcon.