On November 21, 2017, Cydni Ballesteros Staal, a dedicated mother and wife, local business owner of Oakdale Flowers and More, and a loyal friend to many people in this community died after a years-long battle with cancer.
Cydni was born and raised in Salida, graduated from Central Catholic, and was retired from Sierra Conservation Center. Cydni was a loving and generous person. She was always willing to help anyone with anything at any time. Her family meant the world to her. She was a very dedicated mother and was always there for her children. She loved them fiercely. Her first grandson brought her so much excitement and joy. Battling cancer for so many years, had taught Cydni about what was really, truly, important in life. If you knew her, you knew that being the only girl of five brothers had left its mark on Cyd. Her brothers meant the world to her. Her husband, her mother, her father; she had a special love for everyone.
In the years to come, when I remember Cyd, I will remember her strength. She was the strongest person I’ve ever known. I will remember her loyalty, and ability to love and forgive. I will remember how hard she fought and battled, doing it with a smile on her face. Never giving up. Not even at the end was Cydni willing to give in. She was a force to be reckoned with, and she taught me so many things. Her shop, Oakdale Flowers and More, will never be the same without her. The doors will continue to be open and we will continue to serve her customers in the same regard as she did for so many years. Rest well, my dear friend, and fly high with the angels. We know you are keeping watch over us all.
A fund has been set up for Cydni’s daughters Hannah Bailey and Haleigh Ballesteros Bailey. If you have any questions you can contact Oakdale Flowers and More; checks should be made payable in care of Hannah Bailey, 304 E. F Street, Oakdale, CA 95361
The Oakdale (Calif.) Leader
Dec. 13, 2017