"When our time on this earth is done, money or material things will not matter. But the love, time and kindness we've given others will shine forever…"

It is with heavy hearts that we share the loss of our mother, Sonia Calderin, who passed away peacefully after a short battle with cancer, surrounded by her loving family. Sonia was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico in 1947. She is predeceased by her parents Virginia Lopez Calderin and Ramon Calderin both of Puerto Nuevo, PR and her brother Ramon Calderin Jr.

Our mom dedicated her career of 33 years as an educator at Escuela Gustavo Adolfo Becquer in Quintana, PR until she retired to spend more time with her family. Her passion for helping others made her an inspiration to many, and her selflessness, compassion, and generosity truly made her one of a kind. As an educator at heart, she was a teacher to many and a "titi" or "abuela" to everyone. She loved her students like if they were her own and she let them know every time she could. She celebrated their accomplishments and cried their sorrows amongst them.

Mom found happiness when helping others, lending them her strength when theirs was running low. People were always worth a moment, and more, of her time. She was someone who entered your life, and there was nobody else like her, no one more extraordinary. She was loved amazingly well in return. Mom had immense pride for her family and friends, but none greater than for that of her grandkids. They were the light of her life, which was evident to anyone that saw the smile on her face or theirs  when she'd surprised them with a visit or cheer for them from the stands of whatever sport they were playing. She was not afraid of being the loudest fan. She made us all a better version of ourselves.

She will be missed dearly but her family asks that she be remembered for the joy and inspiration she brought to others in life. Sonia is survived by her daughter, Ixia Bongiorno and her husband Greg Bongiorno and grandsons Noah and John of Marion, MA. Her son Eduardo Rodriguez and his wife Tania Santiago and grandchildren Sebastian and Anani of Naugatuck, CT, her brother Rene Calderin and his wife Elba of Bayamon, PR along with her wonderful nieces Natalia and Adriana and nephews Jose and Alejandro.

We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to her oncologist and family friend Dr. Peter Ward for his guidance and support during these last six weeks.  Also to the ER staff at Tobey Hospital, especially Dr. Bernier, South Coast Hospice and second floor nurses Janine, Sandra and Soli.  You will always have a very special place in our hearts. Your kindness and compassion during these difficult times did not go unnoticed and made a huge impact in our lives. From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you.

Lastly, we appreciate all the thoughts and prayers for our mama throughout these past few weeks. A Celebration of Life will be held in Puerto Rico in the Summer of 2024. Details to be shared at a later time. Mama we are bringing you home.