Martha Ann Balderama

Surrounded by the love of her family, on Thursday, July 3, 2025, Martha Ann Balderama passed from this life into the next, to be reunited with the love of her life, her husband Frank. Born in Tulare, CA on April 27th, 1944, Martha was the oldest of three children born to Trinidad and Arcadia Magdaleno. When she was a young child, the family moved to Hanford where she attended Thomas McCarthy Catholic School. The religious education she received from the nuns made a remarkable impact on her, and she carried the truths of her faith throughout her life. Martha attended Hanford High School, graduating in 1962. She spoke fondly of memories and cherished friendships gained there, which lasted a lifetime. Martha attended College of the Sequoias where she was an active member of the Young Democrats. In the summer of 1958 Martha met her future husband, Frank Balderama, during a visit with friends at his family's ranch. She didn't see him again until four years later when she invited him to her senior prom. In August of 1963, they were married and together they wrote a love story that lasted over 55 years until Franks' passing in 2019 . Together they traveled, enjoyed the casinos, loved eating out, and shared a sweet tooth, with Martha always having a candy bar in her purse. She was an avid reader and enjoyed crafting, and was always ready for a trip to the coast. For over thirty years Martha worked for Visalia Unified School District as an instructional aide for English language learners. She loved working with students from various countries and took great pride in seeing their accomplishments. She was a member of the Altar and Rosary Society for over 20 years at St. Mary's Catholic Church and in her younger years taught vacation bible school. Martha devoted her whole life to her family, working and sacrificing to make sure her children had a solid faith foundation, a good education, and boundless opportunities. She was involved in activities with her daughters and loved being a band mom. She traveled all over California as part of the Our Lady of Fatima celebrations when her youngest daughter was part of the queen's court. Her grandchildren were the apple of her eye and she attended every T-ball game, choir performance, did projects with them, and took them on special outings. When her younger grandchildren were born Martha often traveled by train to San Diego to spend time with them. When they moved to Kentucky, she would fly there for some grandma time. Her love and tender care will be greatly missed. Martha's legacy of love and faith will live on in her daughters, Stephanie Caldera (Sonny), Kimberly Corippo (Gary), and Amanda Romero (Michael). And as promised, she will be watching over her cherished grandchildren Jared, Justin, and Joshua Caldera, and Michael, Samuel, Amelie, Mary, and Ambrose Romero. Martha is preceded in death by her husband and parents. Visitation will be at Salser and Dillard Funeral Chapel on Wednesday, July 16th, from 4:00-6:00pm. Rosary will follow at 6:00pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, July 17th, at 10:30am at St. Mary's Catholic Church. Interment will follow at the Visalia District Cemetery. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Martha Ann Balderama

April 27, 1944 - July 3, 2025