Wilfrido Erdulfo Calderón Cadena, 103, of Burlington, passed away on Jan. 15, 2025, at Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House in West Burlington. Born on Jan. 1, 1922, in Atuntaqui, Ecuador, to Carmen Maria Cadena Dominguez and José Ignacio Calderón Cadena, Wilfrido’s life was a testament to strength, resilience, and a deep love for family. He married Gloria H. Moreano Mera on Sept. 5, 1950, in Quito, Ecuador, and together, they shared a life full of adventure, learning, and unwavering love. They were blessed with three children: José, Ligia, and Bernadette.
Wilfrido's passions were many. A gifted musician, he played the piano, organ, guitar, and flute, composing his own music and lyrics. He had a lifelong love of reading, was an avid traveler, and cherished the game of soccer, from player to fan, whether it be World Cup matches or high school games. He was also a passionate, lifelong Iowa Hawkeye fan. In addition, he enjoyed card games such as Cuarenta and Poker, as well as pheasant hunting and fishing. Above all, Wilfrido’s sense of humor and love for life, especially his sweet tooth, remained central to his character. His sweet tooth was often indulged by Kathy Ewinger, to which he would fondly say, “she gave me candy,” always with a twinkle in his eye.
Known for his gentle demeanor, perpetual smile, and generous nature, Wilfrido made a lasting impression on everyone he met. He instilled in his children the importance of family, responsibility, dedication, and a strong work ethic. His positive attitude and caring heart helped shape those around him, especially his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
After completing his medical studies at Universidad Central de Quito, Ecuador, in 1950, Wilfrido’s journey took him across the world. He and his family moved to Kansas City, Kan., in 1959, where he worked at Unity Hospital, and later to Osawatomie, Kan., where he worked at Osawatomie State Hospital. In 1962, he was accepted into the University of Iowa Anesthesia residency program, where he graduated in 1964. He then moved to Burlington, and practiced anesthesia at Mercy and Eastman Hospitals, which later merged to become Burlington Medical Center. Here, he contributed significantly to the local medical community, founding the Respiratory Care Department at BMC. He later studied acupuncture in Japan and became involved in the practice of smoking cessation through acupuncture. He was a Diplomat of the American Board of Anesthesiology and a member in good standing of the International Society of Anesthesia, National Society of Regional Anesthesia, National Society of Respiratory Care, American Medical Association, Iowa Medical Society, Des Moines County Medical Society, among others. Retiring in 1989, Wilfrido remained active, briefly working for the Iowa Board of Medical Examiners.
Even into his later years, Wilfrido never stopped learning. He remained curious, purchasing a computer and taking computer science classes at SCC. He embraced emerging technology with the same enthusiasm he had for life.
For Wilfrido, the most rewarding moments were spent traveling the globe with his beloved wife of 63 years, Gloria, who was both his best friend and greatest love. A notable and extremely proud moment came in 1976 when he, his wife Gloria, and his daughter Ligia became naturalized United States citizens. In his later years, some of Wilfrido’s simplest pleasures included spending time with his family, attending soccer games to support his son and grandchild at BHS, watching his favorite TV shows, including Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy, and Password, and driving around to take in Iowa's beautiful countryside. He never lost his love for life and cherished every moment.
He is survived by his children, José W. Calderón (Luz Amelia) of Burlington, Ligia Calderón of Burlington, Bernadette Hugan (Chris) of Madison, Tenn.; grandchildren, José B. Calderón (Allison Scherff) of Waukee, Diego Calderón of Burlington, Anthony Wessels (Aaron Wines) of Atlanta, Ga., Brianna Hall (Alex) of Springfield, Tenn.; great-grandchildren, Benjamin, Nicholas, and Oliver Calderón of Waukee, Preston and Etta Hall of Springfield, Tenn.; siblings, Celina Calderón-Garzón (sister); Milton Calderón Cadena (brother); Cecilia Moreano-Jimenez (sister-in-law) and many nieces and nephews.
Wilfrido was preceded in death by his loving wife, his parents, four brothers, six sisters and an infant grandson.
A private family funeral service will be held. According to his wishes, cremation has been accorded and entrusted to Prugh Funeral Service.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to the Burlington Predators Soccer Club (2534 Cliff Road, Burlington, IA), Special Needs Foundation, or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.