Nelda Harding

1949 - 2021

NELDA HARDING Nelda Harding, age 72, passed away on February 10, 2021 from complications after surgery. She was born in Alhambra, California to Jan & Martha Kapustka. She is survived by sisters, Norma McCrory, Nancy Smith, Nicki Jones and Ninna Chaffee, many nieces, nephews and their children. She is predeceased by her parents, aunts, uncles, brother Jan and the love of her life, Roger. If you look in a dictionary or google the words giving, caring, passionate, funny, smart and beautiful, they would describe Nelda. When not working she would give time to her older friends who didn't have family close by. She would bring gifts, take them to lunch or simply visit with them. She was a huge animal lover. Cats, dogs, horses, birds-she loved them all. To her friends she was known as the cat whisperer. Animals were drawn to her because of her patient and gentle nature. Nelda was co-owner of HeavenScent Candles & Gifts in Paradise. It was there that she created some of the most beautiful candles that were shipped to many parts of the United States. She had a way with customers, always showing them her favorite things and sharing her latest joke. She supported local fundraisers, especially those pertaining to animals, and especially loved winning auctions and raffles. Her favorite time of year was spring and summer. She loved gardening and just enjoying the weather. Her favorite holiday was Halloween. She would spend days preparing bags of candy for the many regulars that came back year after year, even treats for the pups. She loved decorating her home for Christmas and was always on the lookout for the perfect gift to give. The highlight of her week were crossword puzzles in the Sunday papers. With her amazing vocabulary, she completed each one in pen. She was better than a dictionary and our "go to" person for spelling. She was a gentle, genuine, sweet person who loved life. We will miss Nelda dearly and treasure the imprint she has left on our hearts. A memorial service will be held at a later date. If you wish, in honor of her memory, donations may be made to Top Cats of Paradise, P. O. Box 2281, Paradise, Ca. 95967. To view obituary and send online condolences, go to NewtonBracewell.com.