Carmen A. Zaldua

ALBANY- CARMEN A. ZALDUA 83, of Albany New York, passed away on May 14, 2012 after a brief illness at home surrounded by her family and friends.
Carmen was born on July 26,1928 in Colombia. She was the daughter of Melida Ruiz de Guzman and Juan de la Rosa Guzman and was the oldest of seven children. After obtaining a BA in Philosophy and Languages in Colombia, she came to the United States on a Fulbright Scholarship and obtained her M.S. in Foreign Language, later on becoming a PH.D candidate in Spanish Literature and Bilingual Education in the State University of New York, at Albany.
For many year, Carmen worked as a Modern Language teacher in various school districts in the State of New York and as a G.E.D. teacher for the NY State Department of Correctional Services. Carmen's passion was to help others, she was involved in many community organizations and community activities providing support and services to the Hispanic Community in the area, living a lasting memory for all of those she touched. Carmen was always available to those in need and those that sought her guidance and support. She was extremely generous to others, a volunteer for many organizations. Always a trusted and loyal friend to many.
Carmen was an avid traveler; she enjoyed being with people and sharing her knowledge and interests with others. She loved music, dancing, reading, learning about different cultures, entertaining and being with friends and family. She had a lively and passionate personality, health and well being were extremely important to her, she made a point of walking, practicing yoga and daily exercise provided great pleasure to her. Family was of outmost importance for Carmen, she adored her daughters, grandchildren, sisters and brothers as well as nieces and nephews.
She is survived by her partner Antonio Ferracane, her daughters Luz Angela Zaldua, Martha Zaldua and grandchildren Chiara Medoro and Juan Pablo Guzman. She will be greatly missed by her family, friends and neighbors.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday morning at 9:00am at Blessed Sacrament Church, Albany. There will be no calling hours. Memorial contributions may be made to Blessed Sacrament School, 607 Central Ave., Albany, NY 12206 in memory of Carmen A. Zaldua.