Cancer Claims Cal Express Manager

Dec. 1, 2012

Daretha “Dee” Canadas, 68 years old and the founder and manager/coach of the California Express senior women’s softball team, died on Sept. 18 after battling complications from cancer.

She was remembered by teammates as a determined and firm, yet fair, leader. Her skill as a player was equally remarkable and she had a lot of power in hitting long balls despite her petite 110-pound frame.

The Express closed out the 2012 season with a championship in the silver bracket in the women’s 60+ division at the Huntsman Tournament in October, their first tournament without her. “We felt more bonded than ever and we gave our all for Dee,” said shortstop Connie Wolver.

A lifelong resident of Half Moon Bay, Calif., the Canadas family is establishing a Half Moon Bay High scholarship to go to a deserving softball player in the high school. Donations can be made to: The Daretha Canadas memorial Scholarship at Wells Fargo Bank, 132 San Mateo Road, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019 c/o Kathy White.