Norma Vera Gonzales

December 20, 1935 - February 27, 2011

Norma passed away peacefully at her home with her family by her side. A home that served as a warm and welcoming gathering place to friends and relatives alike. Loving wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother, friend and in-law; Norma stood as a pillar of strength empowered by her Faith in God and her love of family. Preceded in death by her husband E A 'Kix' Gonzales in 1983, Norma spent the rest of her life lovingly leading by example as her family grew.

Norma is survived by sisters Dee Santos and Alice Chessani, brothers Ray and Art Chessani, daughter Rose Knight and husband Colin, sons Greg Gonzales and wife Dian, Gary Gonzales and wife Teri, Paul Gonzales and wife Sandra. She was also very proud of her grandchildren Michael Brooks and his wife Andrea, Thomas and Jonathan Brooks, Jennifer, Anna and Kara Gonzales, Jessica and Nico Gonzales, Lauren and Rick Drivas, Paulina and Emily Gonzales; as well as her great grandchildren Kennedy and Zoe Brooks, Devin and Rainbow Brooks.

She enjoyed gardening, art, music, dancing and everything Elvis. She passed her passion and enthusiasm to all she touched.

In her final Christmas, although confined to rest and warmth at home, she insisted on going Christmas shopping for the younger children. The following day, again surrounded by her entourage, she made another field-trip to the store for ingredients for our traditional Christmas Eve tamale cook off. The week took a toll on her so by the time Christmas dinner was served, she was ready for bed. Not wanting her to miss the festivities, all of the children opened their gifts and gave a special showing to grandma in her bedroom. So often when someone passes, they are remembered for showing us how to die...Norma will always be remembered in our hearts as the person who showed us how to live.