Milagros “Millie” Hernaez Caldart passed away peacefully on March 13, 2025, at the age of 94. Her final days were spent surrounded by her loving family. Millie was born in the Philippines on September 22, 1930, to the late Alejo and Cornelia Hernaez, the 4th of their 6 children.

Millie met Derald “Bugs” Caldart, a young Marine stationed in the Philippines in 1954. They fell in love and were married at the Melate Catholic Church in Manila on January 18, 1955. Following the wedding, they moved to the United States, spending time in both San Diego and Bremerton until the end of Derald’s military career. 

Edmonds became their lifelong home when they moved into town in 1962. At that time, they joined Holy Rosary Parish, where Millie dedicated the next 60 years to service and her community. They enjoyed 18 years of marriage and raising their three children together before Derald’s passing in 1973. 

In addition to her role as a beloved mother, grandmother, and aunt, Millie will be remembered for her deep Catholic faith and generous spirit. She served many roles within Holy Rosary Parish, including participation in the choir and the Women’s Association, and the St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon. Millie also served many families by gathering fellow parishioners to attend funeral services. She enjoyed doing the readings at Friday Mass, and over the years provided hundreds of handmade crocheted items for the Holiday Fair.  

Millie loved to travel the world. One of her favorites was her trip to Ireland with Delores Murphy, led by Father Madigan. Her passion for travel, music and baking created countless joyful memories for all who knew her. 

Millie is survived by her children: Sandy (Bob) and Rick (Jackie); six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, and many loving nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Derald Caldart in 1973, her son William “Al” Caldart in 1993, and her five siblings: Carolina Lingenbrink, Salvador Hernaez, Virginia Hernaez, Magdalena Javier and Matilde Trood. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be mailed to Holy Rosary Parish at 760 Aloha Street, Edmonds, WA 98020, in honor of Millie’s lifelong service to her Catholic community. 

May she rest in eternal peace, and find joy in the presence of our Lord, knowing she was deeply loved and will be dearly missed by all. 

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Funeral Mass followed by a celebration of life reception on Friday, March 28, 2025, at 10:30am at Holy Rosary Parish (630 7th Ave N., Edmonds, WA 98020). The family will proceed to Holyrood Catholic Cemetery in Shoreline for a private Interment.