Maria Estopellan

Maria was born June 14, 1928 in Texas she was the first of 6 children, Molly, Johnny, Connie, Beatriz, and Mario, born to Isauso and Tereza Salamanca.

Maria was a spunky, resilient lady with many interests and talents. She was a seamstress, making clothes for her children when they were growing up and blankets for her grandkids. She enjoyed knitting, and knitted many things for her family. She was a field laborer, working in grapes, oranges, and more. She was a cook for restaurants- Mexicali on Niles St and some in Arvin and Lamont. When she wasn't knitting for loved ones or cooking, you could find her with her roses and large collection of plants. She loved music and LOVED to dance, especially cumbias, tiring many dance partners!

She loved to have her family and friends around her. Holidays were big! One Easter, she dressed up in a pink bunny suit! Christmas was her favorite time. Decorations everywhere! She loved to cook tamales, and we looked forward to enjoying them! They were always great tasting! She always had a gift for everyone!

She is survived by her second husband Ernesto, six of her 7 children. Enriqueta Castro, Albert (Emily) Bonilla, Sylvia (Paul) Esparza, Ernie (Lupe) Bonilla, Marcos (Janet) Bonilla, and Delia (Frank) Miranda. Also, her sister Connie (Tom ) Morris and brother Johnny (Jackie) Salamanca. Numerous grandchildren, 5 generations, and nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her daughter Minnie Villegas and her first husband, Apolonio Bonilla.

We Thank God for blessing us with her!

She will be greatly missed and admired for the amazing woman she was and all she did!

We find peace in our hearts that you're dancing with the angels in heaven!

A visitation for Maria will be held Thursday, September 5, 2024 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Hillcrest Memorial Park 9101 Kern Canyon Road, Bakersfield, CA 93306.

Funeral Mass will occur Friday, September 6, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at St Augustine Parish Church, 10601 Myrtle Ave, Lamont, CA 93241.

Her graveside service will follow from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM, 9101 Kern Canyon Road, Bakersfield, CA 93306.