Arlene Casas

Arlene Ann Casas (Hernandez), 72, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, went to be with God on January 17, 2021 after a valiant battle with covid. She is survived by her husband, John Casas, three children, Danté Casas, Christopher Casas and Jennifer Bergen, her sister and brother, six loving grandchildren, and many wonderful nieces and nephews who all grieve the loss of such a wonderful person, but trust in God because her faith was so strong.

Arlene was born in North Platte, Nebraska on April 11, 1948 to John and Mary Hernandez (Rivera). Arlene was the oldest of four siblings Eddie Hernandez, Roxanne Mendoza, and Joseph Hernandez who she joins in peace after his passing earlier in 2020. Arlene’s family moved to California and resided in Santa Ana where she graduated from Magnolia High School. She had a dedicated career of 35 years as a Customer Service Representative at Beckman Instruments. Even after she retired, she enjoyed sharing stories of the people she met and the pride she felt in her work.

Arlene and John regularly attended St. Cecilia Catholic Church in Tustin and had a special celebration Mass for their 50 years of marriage at Saint Justin in Anaheim. Arlene was kind and giving to all she came across. She was regularly checking in on her loved ones and friends with a caring, “How are you mijo/mija?” or “Are you hungry, would you like something to eat?” She enjoyed cooking birthday dinners for her family consisting of their favorite foods, usually a dish she was known for, such as enchiladas, lasagna, or her famous chili ribs. These recipes are part of a long legacy from her mother’s own recipes, which her children and grandchildren try to perfect so they can pass them along to the next generation. There was so much love in her food you could taste it! Arlene loved to celebrate with her family and was always excited to be part of their lives, whether that meant softball in California, long trips to Evanston, or a beautiful wedding in Northern Wisconsin. She brightened a room with her presence and lightened hearts with her laughter. Arlene’s disposition was so bright that she earned the nickname “Sunny” from her husband. The song “Sunny” by Bobby Hebb captures how John feels about the love of his life. Arlene left a legacy of kindness, gentleness and joy and will forever live in the hearts of those that had the privilege to know her. The family reminds everyone to actively protect themselves against the coronavirus by using masks, distance and sanitizers until the vaccines reach everyone. The Rosary will be March 2nd at Saddleback Chapel, 220 E Main Street, Tustin from 5 to 9 PM. Vigil and full Rosary performed at 6:30 pm.

The Mass will be held March 3rd at 10 AM at Saint Joseph Catholic Church, 727 North Minter Street, Santa Ana. The service may be held outdoors, you will need to bring your own chair.

A private burial for family will be held on March 3rd at 2:15 PM at Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Boulevard. A private reception for family will follow at 1622 Enramada Drive, Tustin 92780 after the service.

The family understands everyone would like to pay their respects and welcome individuals to attend the mass on March 3rd. If you would like to attend the Rosary, please keep in mind that attendance will need to be limited and scattered throughout the allotted time frame. You will be required to maintain a social distance in addition to wearing a mask at all events.

Zoom will be available for the Rosary and Mass. Rosary: Meeting ID: 811 4559 0022 (5:00pm-8:00pm. Rosary at 6:30) Mass: Meeting ID: 710 0231 3302