Louis Cardenas

Louis Cardenas, age 97, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 24, 2024, at the Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown surrounded by his family.

Louis was born March 30, 1927, in Des Moines, Iowa to Joseph and Maria Cardenas. He grew up in Mexico with his mother, then moved back to Des Moines. Louis worked various labor jobs until he was drafted into the United States Army during the Korean War. He married his first wife, Alice, who passed away during childbirth in 1962. Louis married Arlene (Chia) Cardenas in 1963.

After his military service, Louis worked for Solar Aircraft in Des Moines. Following that, he worked for the City of Des Moines in various positions, working his way up from laborer to truck driver, retiring as a heavy equipment operator.

He enjoyed bowling and sewing. Louis was active in various VFWs, Bellizzi Mac Rae American Legion Post #659 in Des Moines, and attended many VFW conventions.

Louis is survived by his children, Anthony (Rose) Cardenas, David (Kayla) Negrete, and Mary Fran (Daniel) Downs; grandchildren, Joseph (Julie Cunningham), Andrea, and Tonia Cardenas, Brennan and Brock Negrete; great-grandchildren, A.J. (Hannah Ogle), Lejla, Miguel, and Meleck Cardenas, Rae and Luca Negrete; great-great-grandchildren, Kiya Cardenas, Charlie and Brooklyn; as well as numerous nieces and nephews and their families.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Alice Cardenas; second wife, Arlene Cardenas; his parents, Joseph and Maria Cardenas; and his five siblings.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, June 27, 2024, at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 10:00 a.m. Friday, June 28, 2024, at St. Anthony Catholic Church, 15 Indianola Road, Des Moines. Burial with military honors will follow at Glendale Cemetery, Des Moines.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be directed to the Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown in appreciation of their care of Louis.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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