Edward John Cardoza

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Edward John Cardoza.  Aged 76, Eddie passed away peacefully on August 31, 2021.

Eddie was born in San Rafael on December 4th, 1944 to parents John Cardoza & Beatrice Cardoza.  He began his life on Tubbs Island and as a young child moved to the family ranch on Lakeville Highway in Petaluma.  He attended Lakeville Elementary School and later graduated Petaluma High School in 1962.  Soon after, Eddie met his cherished wife Cathy, his “sweetie”, and they were married in 1967.   They welcomed two loving daughters, Gina and Lisa.  They were married for 54 years.

Growing up on the family ranch gave him a solid foundation in life.  Eddie was proud to be full Portuguese and grew up speaking Portuguese in his family home.  On the ranch he developed a hard work ethic and it was there that he gained a love of farming, hunting, and working sheep with his family and friends.  On the ranch he learned many lessons and Portuguese sayings, that often did not make sense to others.  His grandfather always taught him that it is important to “feed your animals before you feed yourself”.   Eddie was a dedicated employee at the Petaluma Creamery, and later at the West County Transportation Bus Garage.  He went back to his roots for his final career, farming for Craig Jacobsen & Brian Gilardi.

Anybody that met Eddie would agree that he was an infectiously happy person.  He was known to many by his oversized hands, his barreling voice, and his unique laugh that you’d surely recognize in a crowd.  If you attended a dinner where risotto was being served, he was most likely the skilled cook behind the pot.  Eddie was a longtime member of the San Antonio Gun Club, where he spent every deer season amongst his best friends and family.  He truly appreciated a good joke, although he was often the target.  Eddie was a valued member of numerous pedro card clubs over the years, never really caring about winning, just there for the special camaraderie.  He had countless adventures in his jeep, “little red”.  He loved to spend time in his man cave drinking a cold beer while sharing tall tales about shooting big bucks.  Many people around town will miss seeing him on his daily walks with his dearest dog, Josie.  All who knew Eddie will remember his selfless and giving spirit, always quick to lend a hand.  Most of all, Eddie was incredibly proud of his family.  He never missed an important moment in his grandchildren’s lives; you always knew that he was your biggest fan.  Whenever he would tell you a story about his children, son-in-laws, or grandchildren, his eyes would sparkle with joy.

Eddie is survived by his loving wife Cathy, daughters: Gina (Jim) Marino, Lisa (Bob) Yerion, grandchildren: Jamie (Lucas) Charles, Jenna Marino, Kate Yerion, Renee Yerion, Joe Yerion, and great-granddaughter, Annie Charles.  Eddie was also survived by his cousin, Diana (Pete) Bussmann, in laws Mike (Jolene) Rossotti, Vicky (Alan) Sparks, godchildren: Jimmy Bussmann, Brian Sparks, Tony Rossotti, and numerous nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents John Cardoza and Beatrice Cardoza, in laws Victor and Betty Rossotti, and godson Joey Corda.

“See you when I see you, talk when we talk.”

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, September 7th, 2021 at Saint Vincent de Paul Church at 11:00 am, 35 Liberty St, Petaluma, CA 94952.  Private interment will occur at a later date.  Family and friends are invited to attend a celebration of life immediately following the funeral service at the San Antonio Gun Club, 963 San Antonio Rd, Petaluma, CA 94952.  We recommend downloading directions prior as cell phone service is poor.

Donations may be made in his name to the Petaluma FFA Ag Boosters, 201 Fair Street, Petaluma, CA 94952, or to a charity of your choice.

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