Marian Evelyn Gonzales

Born on a farm in Wentzville, Missouri, she was the youngest of five children and was affectionately called “Babe” by her family. Marian grew up loving all things athletic: riding horses, driving tractors and playing softball and basketball. She never lost her adventurous and competitive spirit, scaling Spy Rock on the Appalachian Trail on her 80th birthday and enjoying winning at pickle ball until she retired from the sport at age 90. She then turned her attention to becoming a champion Wii bowler.

She and Ralph, her husband of 67 years, were one of the first families to move to Springfield, Virginia in 1952. Marian was active in the rapidly growing Springfield community, including being a charter member of the Springfield United Methodist Church and a founding member of the Springfield Swimming Club. Marian was a life-long volunteer, serving in many leadership positions.

Marian and Ralph were also some of the first residents of Greenspring Retirement Community, moving in 1999. She continued her volunteer work, serving in many positions, among them Secretary of the Investment Club and as a volunteer at the Treasure Chest. One of her greatest joys was helping others, and she will be remembered by all for her wonderful smile and her kindness.

She was a much beloved wife, mother, aunt and grandmother. She is survived by her husband Ralph and three children: daughters Joanne (Richard) Rodewald of Arlington and Cathy (Paul) O’Kelly of Oak Park, Illinois and son Clifford (Julie) Gonzales of Dale City; her grandchildren: Colleen (Tony Costanza) O’Kelly, Myles O’Kelly, Brian Rodewald, Joe Gonzales, Mark Gonzales, Kate Gonzales, and Emma (Tim) Daisy; and great-grandson Lewis Daisy. She is also survived by her sister Marjorie Barklage of St. Peters, Missouri.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, March 11, 2018 at 1:30 p.m. at Springfield United Methodist Church, 7047 Old Keene Mill Road, Springfield, Virginia 22150. Visitation will be held at the church preceding the service beginning at noon.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Springfield United Methodist Church or to the Greenspring Benevolent Care Fund.