Maria Elena Thudium

Maria Elena Thudium was born June 27th, 1965 in El Cajon, California. 

It is with profound sadness that Elena passed away July 4th, 2024, at home in Santee, California.

Elena was a loving wife and a devoted mother figure whose presence illuminated every room she entered. She lived her life through her unwavering faith, and her kindness, compassion, and infectious joy. She touched the hearts of all who knew and loved her. 

Elena's unwavering commitment to her family and her ability to find happiness in the simple pleasures of life made her a beacon of inspiration to those around her.

Born to Roger Duperron and Maria, nee Rodriquez, Maria Elena was raised in a devout Catholic household. From a young age, she was devoted to her faith, regularly attending Mass at Our Lady of Grace of El Cajon and learning the teachings of the Bible from her parents.

Elena's childhood was filled with a love of the outdoors - she could often be found working alongside her father in the workshop or riding horses and her motorbike through the hills of Santee. Her athletic prowess earned her a reputation as a "tomboy" who could outperform many of the boys in her school. It was during this time that she formed a lifelong friendship with her best friend, Diane Young (nee Marrokal).

For three decades, Elena dedicated herself to caring for elderly women in their homes. Her loving, tender touch and unwavering commitment brought great comfort to those in her care. During this time, she also selflessly helped raise Charity Racine, who affectionately referred to her as "Mom."

Later in life, Elena married Steve Thudium, and the two shared a happy 10 years together in Santee before her untimely passing. One of the highlights of their marriage was a trip to Las Vegas, which was Elena's first time leaving the state. After their wedding, Elena became a devoted homemaker, welcoming Charity into her home and supporting her through her high school graduation and entry into adulthood.

In her final years, Elena's unwavering dedication to family shone through as she took on the responsibility of caring for her own mother, Maria, ensuring she received the Eucharist every Sunday. She also helped care for Steve's mother, Bette Brown, eagerly learning from her about life and etiquette. 

Maria Elena Thudium lived a life of faith, family, and service. Her kind heart, tireless work ethic, and unwavering love for those around her left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She will be deeply missed, but her memory will live on in the lives she touched and the legacy of love and compassion she leaves behind.

Elena is survived by her loving husband, Stephen Thudium, her daughter Charity Racine, and her siblings Denise Bohlken, Donna Weeding, Elaine Snelson, Sylvia Gunderson, George Dupperon, Joel Dupperon, and Anna Campbell. 

She will be deeply missed, and her memory will continue to inspire and guide those whose lives she has touched.

Viewing Wednesday July 17, 2024 between 4 - 8 PM

Featheringill Mortuary 6322 El Cajon Blvd
San Diego, CA 92115 

Funeral services will be held 

Thursday, July 18th, 2024, at 10:00 AM 

Located at 

Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church  

2766 Navajo Rd
El Cajon, CA 92020 

Final Resting Place 

Singing Hills Memorial Park  12 - 1 PM

2800 Dehesa Rd
El Cajon, CA 92019