Debra Vera Balandran

Debra Vera Balandran, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend, passed away on May 3, 2024, in Santa Ana, California, the town where she was born on August 23, 1954, to her loving parents, Aurora "Bola" and Ernest. Debra was a cherished soul whose presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Debra's life was one filled with love, dedication, and unwavering strength. She met the love of her life, Fred Balandran, and they shared a beautiful marriage that began in Las Vegas, Nevada, on September 20, 1975. Together, they raised a loving family and created countless memories that will forever be cherished.

Debra's journey through life was marked by hard work and commitment. She graduated from Los Amigos High School in Santa Ana, California, and went on to work at Kodak in Fountain Valley before dedicating her time to the Westminster School District. Her tenure with WSD began in 1993, where she started as a Noontime Supervisor. Through her dedication and strong work ethic, she transitioned to Nutrition Services in 1994, serving as a food service worker at Webber Elementary School until her well-deserved retirement in 2010, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and care for those around her.

Outside of her professional life, Debra was a woman of many passions. She adored her 1967 Blue Volkswagen Fastback, enjoyed cooking, baking, and sharing her love for food with her family. Debra's generous spirit extended beyond her immediate family, as she welcomed all into her heart, creating a close-knit community of loved ones along the way. Her strong convictions, thoughtfulness, and outspoken nature left a lasting impact on all who knew her.

Debra will be deeply missed by her mother, Aurora "Bola"; her husband, Fred Sr.; her brother, Ernie "Tito" Rocha; her sons, Fred, Jr. and Bryan, her daughters-in-law, Paulina and Alicia; her beloved grandchildren, Alyssa, J.J., Sandra, Abel, Joseph, and all the "bonus" family she embraced with open arms. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who were touched by her kindness and warmth.

Debra's legacy of love and strength will continue to live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. A celebration of her life will be held at Westminster Memorial Park and Mortuary on Beach Boulevard in Westminster, California, on June 8, 2024, at 9:30 AM, where family and friends can pay their respects and honor the life of a remarkable woman who will forever be remembered as the best mom and grandma ever.

In the warmth of her memory and the love she shared with all, Debra Vera Balandran will remain an everlasting beacon of light in the hearts of those she touched along her beautiful journey of life. Debra is now reunited with her beloved sister Sandy Rocha.