Senior of the Month 

When we can, let’s all lend a helping hand!

"Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.”   Mark Twain 

Seniors of the Month   

May 2023  ---  Elpidia Castaneda and Antonio Hernandez

Congratulations  Seniors of the Month

Antonio Hernandez (Tony)

Antonio Hernandez (Tony) was born on May 11, 1935, in El Paso, Texas. His parents were Sabino and Elisa Hernandez. He grew up in Borderland, Texas working on farms and then traveled to California as a teenager to harvest grapes.

Tony has been a La Union resident since 1965. On November 3, 1954, he married the love of his life, Anna Maria de la Torre, better known as his honey. They enjoyed 67 wonderful years together. Tony and Ana Maria had a family of six children (four boys and two girls). The family then grew to 10 grandkids and 21 great grandkids. They were blessed with a large family. Tony worked at White Sands for two years and then studied to become a certified Barber. Tony used his entrepreneurial skills and talents to make a Barber Shop at his home in La Union. He cut hair for everyone in town. Many people enjoyed his haircuts.

Tony demonstrated many multiple talents. Among them were Carpentry, Diesel Mechanic and working at Border Steel. He was a foreman at Roadrunner trucking and then later retired in 1997. His hobbies are spending time with his family and camping at various places.

He was a volunteer fireman in La Union. Tony remains quite active finding new projects for his home. 

He never stops!  Tony is an outstanding resident, father, husband, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend. We are fortunate to have him as part of our town. Thank you Tony!! 

You are what makes La Union "Special."

Elpidia Castaneda

Elpidia Castaneda is 97 years young. She was married to her husband Florentino and has been living in La Union for 53 years. She worked at Mountain Pass for 5 years and then later dedicated her life to caring for her family. Elpidia and Florentino shared a family of nine (five girls and 4 boys).


Elpidia enjoys knitting and gardening and remains a proud resident of La Union. She used to participate in sewing, knitting, and crocheting classes that were held in the community. Elpidia used this time to talk with friends and other housewives while enjoying her hobbies at the same time.

Did I tell you that to this day Elpidia still waters her garden, BY HERSELF? Isn’t that a GREAT fact? I think it’s remarkable to see a strong lady still doing the things she enjoys the most. 

Way to go Elpidia! You are such an inspiration to all of us.