Magdalena C. Dombroski

Magdalena C. Dombroski left us peacefully on July 16th, 2025, at The Cottages in Tucson, Arizona. She was 91 years old. Born on October 23rd, 1933, in Colima, Mexico, to parents Jose Castaneda and Ana Castellanos, Magdalena enriched the lives of all who knew her with grace and unwavering kindness.

Magdalena spent her childhood having numerous adventures with her siblings, Jose Cruz Castaneda and Ana Maria Cristina Castaneda. Formerly, she married Ignacio Santaella (10-1964) in Los Angeles, California, and then later married George Dombroski (who passed away on 10-6-2003). She was a graduate of the Guadalajara Institute of Accounting and also pursued a successful career in the Mexican Movie Industry as a Senior Manager of Film Distribution.

She lived and explored many different places, such as: Colima, Mexico, Guadalajara, Mexico, Los Angeles, California, and Tucson, Arizona. She found many blessings in traveling to new destinations, crocheting thoughtful gifts for loved ones, and cooking family recipes that brought everyone together. Her adventures often took her to Las Vegas, where she embraced the excitement and energy of the city.

Magdalena was the true matriarch of her family, in every sense of the word. She found her purpose and enjoyment in taking care of everyone around her, no matter who they were. You never left with an empty stomach. She approached life’s challenges with grace and embodied strength. She had a remarkable way of putting you in your place with a smile and, somehow, you thanked her for it. She will be terribly missed.

She is remembered fondly for her infectious spirit and heartwarming laugh. Magdalena’s legacy of love and generosity will live on in the hearts of her family and friends. She touched many lives and her absence will be felt by all who had the joy of knowing her.

Magdalena is survived by her son: Marvin Santaella, her granddaughter: Kasondra Mitzner (Tom), her grandson: Kory Santaella, and her great-granddaughter: Mia Lena Mitzner. She will be interred at Holy Hope Cemetery (call Marvin Santaella for more details).

“To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.” – Thomas Campbell

A special thank you to the The Cottages, Dr. Andrea Schindler, M.D. (retired), Pima Council on Aging.