Ismahel "Isma" Mendoza Cardenas

Ismahel “Isma” Mendoza Cardenas, 30, of Homedale, died Thursday, March 6, 2025. A viewing will be held on Friday, March 14, 2025, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at Marsing High School, 209 8th Avenue West in Marsing, with a funeral service to begin at 1:00 pm. A graveside service will follow at Marsing-Homedale Cemetery. Services are under the direction of Flahiff Funeral Chapel, Homedale. (208) 459-0833

Ismahel, born in Nampa, Idaho, and a lifelong resident of Homedale, lived a life filled with passion, adventure, and kindness.  From an early age, he was an active and spirited kid, spending his days riding his bike, swimming at the pool, and making memories with friends.

In high school, he was a dedicated athlete, especially a wrestler and a cheerleader, whose energy and joy were infectious.  Whether on the mat competing, on the sideline chanting, or in shop class cutting, he left an impression on those around him.  It was during these years that he picked up a guitar—an instrument that would become a lifelong love.

After high school, he started a new adventure, moving in with his best friends, his crew, and continuing to chase his passion for music.  His band took shape, and with it, his love for performing only grew.  But music wasn’t his only creative outlet—he found another in cooking.  Through food, he expressed his love, bringing people together around meals prepared with love.

When his adventures called him outdoors, he would spend his time on the deck of the pool with friends, on the side of a mountain hunting with his dad, or on the crooked paths of the hike to Jump Creek.  And he thrived on new adventures, from trying out new instruments to competing in the Homedale Derby to his latest adventure interest — riding motorcycles.  One can easily picture him now, hair trailing behind him in the wind, embracing the freedom of the open road.

More than anything, Ismahel was a man of kindness.  He cherished relationships, loving people without judgment—regardless of shape, color, or size.  Over the years, he transformed from a high school athlete into a true rock and roll soul, but one thing never changed: his heart.  Though his beard may have sometimes hidden his dimples, his warmth and generosity were always on full display.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, music, adventure, and an unwavering kindness that touched the lives of so many.  He will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the melodies he played, the meals he shared, and the love he gave so freely.

“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” – AA Milne

Ismahel Mendoza brought light and laughter to everyone he met because he greeted the world with excitement.  It's that big smile and laugh that made Orchard House visits so fun.  I'd be on my way through the dining room toward the bathrooms, and up out of the kitchen window would pop Isma's face with a big "Hey, man!" and a smile from ear to ear… excited to chat about the latest soup Rayne was coming up with or the newest combination of ingredients he was throwing into breakfast burritos.  His unmistakable laugh will echo in the hearts of those who knew him. 

Music was more than a passion for Ismahel; it was his way of life.  He did more than listen to it ––  he lived it.  His Facebook feed is full of videos he’s been watching.  His notebooks are full of songs he’s writing.  His crates are full of the vinyl he’s collected.  Music flowed through him, and in turn, he shared that rhythm with those around him, bringing joy in every note.

If he wasn’t lost in music, he was creating in the kitchen.  Cooking was another form of expression, another way he poured love into the world.  He devoured recipes, experimented with flavors, and proudly shared his culinary creations.  Every dish was more than food. . . it was a gift, a way to gather people, a way to show love to those closest to him and strangers alike.

Because above all, Ismahel cherished people.  Especially his crew.  His family, his friends, his fans, his co-workers.  He gave them all a piece of his heart.  He was helpful.  He was kind.  He was giving.  In fact, his very presence was a gift, one not everyone had the honor of knowing.  For those of us who did, this loss is heavy.  The memories bring tears now, but in time, they will bring smiles.  Because Ismahel left us with a rhythm— a beat we’ll carry forward, a melody of warmth, joy, and connection that will never fade.