Matilda "Tillie" Gonzalez

Matilda Gonzalez, aka "Tillie", passed away at the age of 87. Tillie was an amazing lady with an infectious laugh, a huge smile, and a strong embrace, and her family and loved ones will miss her dearly.

Tillie is survived by her four children: Nora Bethel, Scott Freitag, Andre Moreno, and Carlos Moreno, as well as twelve grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings: Abel Gonzalez, Beatriz Balderas, Mary Mastren, Sylvia Muñoz, and Margarita Gonzalez, as well as all of their families. Tillie was preceded in death by her father, Margarito Gonzalez; her mother, Ramona De Leon; and by her sisters Camila Gonzalez and Cresencia Rosales.

Tillie faced many challenges and hardships in her young life, and learned to persevere with pride, determination, and faith. She became a fiercely protective mother, determined to provide a better life for her children than what she went through. Tillie was immensely proud of her kids and her grandkids, as well as her home and her ability to take care of herself and her family.

Tillie loved her work in retail, providing joy and warmth to every satisfied customer. When her health began to decline she was taking ESL and writing classes at the community college, with a dream of becoming a teacher, so that she could help others work towards their dreams. Tillie had the biggest heart you've ever seen, and all she wanted to do was give generously to others and take care of her loved ones.

Timothy 4:7

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."

John 14:2

"In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?"

Mom's Blessing

Mom would always bless us, or any of her loved ones, whenever we parted. And she loved everyone. So this blessing is from her to you:

"Por la señal de la Santa Cruz,

de nuestros enemigos

líbranos, Señor, Dios nuestro.

En el nombre del Padre,

del Hijo,

y del Espíritu Santo.

Amén."

Translated to English:

"By the sign of the Holy Cross,

deliver us from our enemies,

O Lord, our God.

In the name of the Father,

and of the Son,

and of the Holy Spirit.

Amen."