Richard Arnold Cardenas

Richard "Dick" Cardenas was born in Whittier, CA, on May 24, 1935, son of Stella and Dale Sheldon. He passed away September 27, 2018, in Whittier California. Dick lived his entire life in Whittier. He attended Bailey Elementary and Whittier High School and graduated in 1953. He was very devoted to his Cardinal graduating class and attended the many reunions over the years. Following high school, Dick served in the US Army and was stationed in Hawaii. He dearly loved his family and served as the family historian. He was married to his beloved wife, Virginia, and they were blessed with sons, Matthew and Michael. If you were a friend of Dick's, you were a friend for life, as he had countless friends he'd known since childhood. Dick also had a great love for all kids. He was a "foster grandpa" for the Metro State Hospital Foster Grandparent Program. Among Dick's many passions was his love for music and his sports teams. He could be called a rabid supporter of his beloved USC Trojans, the LA Dodgers, and the Raiders, especially during their residence in LA. There was nothing Dick loved more than a rousing conversation or discussion about politics. Even though he held steadfast political beliefs, the discussions were always civil and always quite humorous. His gift was his ability to walk into any room, immediately light it up and make everyone feel engaged. His knack for telling humorous stories and reliving the events of his life was legendary. Dick is survived by his son, Matthew, and granddaughters, Coral and Carmen. He was preceded in death by his other son, Michael, in 1995. Viewing, 5-7pm, Wed., Oct. 3, 2018, White Emerson Mortuary, Whittier, followed by Vigil at 7pm. Mass, 9am, Thu., Oct. 4, 2018, Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Whittier. Interment will take place at Rose Hills Memorial Park, Whittier.