Carmen Estevez

Carmen Estevez, born in Constitución, Chile, was the beloved daughter of Enrique and Delia Videla. She later immigrated to the United States, where she met and married her devoted husband, Luis Estevez. Together, they built a life rooted in hard work, creativity, and deep devotion to family, raising three children: Luis, Antonio, and Delia.

Carmen and Luis first opened a restaurant with partners before courageously venturing out on their own in 1989 to establish Casa Luis. Carmen became the heart and soul of the family business, working tirelessly alongside her loved ones. She was Luis’s steadfast supporter, always taking on multiple roles to help provide for the family. Exceptionally capable and resourceful, Carmen could fix cars, take on home improvement projects—including once building a chimney herself—and still find time to create beautifully decorated birthday cakes for her children’s school bake sales.

An accomplished pianist and a deeply creative spirit, Carmen was largely self-taught in many of her talents. She had a true green thumb, especially with tomatoes and her beloved pimientos de padrón, which she proudly grew and prepared for her family and Casa Luis patrons. Her arroz con leche and empanadas were legendary among family and friends.

Above all else, Carmen’s life revolved around children—especially her grandchildren and the children of her nieces and nephews. She was their fiercest defender and most loving guide, teaching them right from wrong and surrounding them with care. Whether preparing meals, helping with homework, getting them ready for bed, or making sure they were prepared for school, Carmen was always present, always nurturing, and always protective.

Her home, lovingly known as Estevez Estates in central New York, was the setting for countless unforgettable family reunions. Family members traveled from Canada, Chile, Sweden, and across the United States to gather together. The large home and surrounding grounds were intentionally created to bring people together, while the children enjoyed extravagant joys—from water slides and playgrounds to pools and ATV rides. Food, laughter, and togetherness filled every corner, with Carmen at the center of it all.

Carmen Estevez leaves behind a legacy of resilience, generosity, creativity, and unwavering love. Her influence lives on in the strong family bonds she nurtured and in the countless lives she shaped through her guidance, protection, and care. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.