Leocadia "Calla" Gonzalez Saavedra, beloved matriarch and pillar of her family, passed away peacefully on June 24, 2024, in Fresno, California, at the age of 94. She was born on December 9, 1929, in Port La Vaca, Texas, to Francisco Obledo Gonzalez and Cruz Alcantar Gonzalez.
Calla was preceded in death by her loving husband of 70 years, Carlos Leon Saavedra Sr., in December 2022. Together, they built a legacy of hard work and dedication, exemplified by their ownership and operation of Saavedra’s Country Market. Before this endeavor, they owned and operated Blue Star Janitorial, cultivated vegetables for local markets, and invested in real estate, all while instilling in their family the values of faith, hard work, and community.
Despite leaving formal education after the 5th grade to assist her family in farm labor, Calla's intellect and wisdom were profound, earning her the respect and admiration of all who knew her. She generously shared her life's lessons and guidance with others throughout her life.
Calla's talents extended beyond business skills; she was an avid seamstress, renowned for crafting prize-winning Halloween costumes for her grandchildren and creating exquisite quilts. Her passion for cooking led to the mastery of traditional Mexican cuisine, and her green thumb yielded flourishing gardens wherever she lived.
Deeply involved in her community, Calla volunteered tirelessly, particularly with the American Cancer Society, where her journey as a breast cancer survivor inspired many. She also contributed to Parkinson's Foundation initiatives, underscoring her compassionate spirit and commitment to helping others.
She is survived by her devoted children: Sofia Nicacio (Johnny), Suzana S. Montana (Salvador), Catalina Saavedra, and Carlos M. Saavedra Jr. (Norma); her cherished grandchildren: Renee C. Gonzales, Larry Nicacio, Antoinette Nicacio, Leticia Montana, Corina M. Mazion (Julius), Natalie M. Ryba (Bradley), Louie D. Bracamonte Jr., Julia I. Johnson (Chad), Paul Bracamonte, Ashley Saavedra, and Stephanie Saavedra; and her great-grandchildren: Catalina D. Bracamonte, Diego R. Johnson, Payten S. Johnson, Adriana D. Quijano, Carly A. Jimenez, Christian L. Nicacio, Chloe S. Nicacio, Joseph R. Gutierrez, Benicio A. Nicacio-Wyman, Eva N. Nicacio-Wyman, Zoe J. Mazion, Liliana A. Mazion, and Baby Ryba (expecting in 2024) and Alexandria Dyer, Amber Dyer, Devon Dyer. She is also survived by her great-great-grandchild, Legacy D. Morris. She is also survived by her siblings: Frank Gonzalez Jr., Manuel Gonzalez, Francisca Martinez, Berta Zapata, Sylvia Tapia, Lupe Martinez and many nephews and nieces.
Calla was predeceased by her husband, Carlos Leon Saavedra Sr.; her parents, Francisco Obledo Gonzalez and Cruz Alcantar Gonzalez; and her siblings: Tomasa Rodriquez, George Gonzalez, Beto Gonzalez, Juana Aviles, Rosaura Ruiz, Luisa Ramirez, Maria “Cuca” Gonzalez, Alberto Gonzalez (1934), and Rosario Gonzalez (1929).
Funeral services will be held at St. Mary’s Queen of the Apostles on Monday, July 22, 2024, with visitation at 4 pm followed by a Rosary at 6 pm. On Tuesday, July 23, 2024, a Mass will commence at 10 am, followed by internment at Fresno Memorial Gardens.
Calla will be remembered for her strength, kindness, and unwavering devotion to her family and community. Her legacy of love and resilience will continue to inspire generations to come.
