Rae Cardenas

We regretfully announce the passing of Rae Nell Dietz Cardenas, lovingly called Pinky, who passed away surrounded by loved ones on April 23, 2021. Pinky had a difficult battle with many cancers and is finally at rest. She will be forever loved and remembered. A service will be held at Chapel Hill Funeral Home, June 12, at 11:00 am (7735 Gibbs Sprawl Road, San Antonio, Texas 78239,  210-599-2035).

Pinky was a loving wife, married to Joe for 57 years (since March 8, 1964), mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who spent her life caring for her beloved family.

She is survived by her two children, Laurie Rae Cardenas Marple (and her husband Kenneth Marple and their two children, Katherine Rae Marple and Joe David Marple), and Daniel Ray Cardenas (and his wife Kayleen Spaeth Cardenas and their daughter Kalli Shae Cardenas, and stepsons Brandyn Van Pelt and Kyle Van Pelt). Pinky is also survived by her stepdaughter Rhonda Jo Duncan and Rhonda's husband Brad, and by Rhonda and Brad's two children Justin Chase Duncan and Summer Duncan Roberts. Pinky is also survived by two great-grandchildren, Jaleigh and Evelyn who are the children of Justin and Justin's wife Sarah, plus there is one other great-grandchild on the way since Summer is expecting.

Pinky spent the beginning of her adult life working as a secretary for Bill Wood Petroleum Engineers in San Antonio. She made such an impression on Mr. Wood that he began treating her like a member of his own family and was as generous to her as if she were his own daughter.

Later Pinky became a graphic designer and worked many years within the printing industry. Then in 1998 she and her daughter Laurie opened a Christian-based day care center at Canyon Lake. Over 20 years later many of the children still remember her from their early years with fond memories. After closing the day care she worked as her husband's bookkeeper for over 21 years.

Pinky was born in San Antonio but her heart was in Seguin where her father Raymond Dietz originated. Pinky was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She will be missed greatly.