Blanca America Huazo

During the changing times of the early 1960s, Blanca America Huazo was born on July 22, 1963, in North Dakota, the daughter of Ruben Portillo Sr. and Celia Portillo. After the passing of her father, her mother later remarried Guillermo Mendoza. She grew up learning the value of hard work, family, and perseverance.

Blanca worked throughout her life in many roles. In her younger years, she was a migrant farm worker, and later worked as a waitress and sales representative. She also served as a supervisor at a floral production plant, where flower arrangements and bouquets were prepared, and took pride in her leadership and work ethic. In addition, she worked as a teacher in migrant camps, helping others learn English. She later became well known as an AVON representative, where she enjoyed meeting and connecting with others.

Blanca was a creative and hardworking woman who loved crocheting, sewing, and baking. She often shared the things she made with her family and took pride in caring for those she loved. She was also strong-willed and outspoken--a “firecracker” who spoke her mind and made sure you always knew where she stood.

More than anything, Blanca treasured her family. Her greatest joy was her children and grandchildren, and she loved spending time with them whenever she could.

Some mothers leave behind recipes or traditions. Blanca left behind blankets, crochet pieces, and recipes made with love, each one carrying a piece of her. She spent her days caring for others, her evenings cheering on the Cowboys, her quiet moments crocheting with her hands always busy, and her life simply being our mother. Every stitch she made is something her family will keep. Every memory is a reminder of her. She will be deeply missed, and her love will remain with her family always.

Blanca America Huazo, age 62, passed away on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. She was preceded in death by her father, Ruben Portillo Sr.; and brothers Ruben Portillo Jr. and Ricardo Portillo.

She is lovingly remembered by her children Christy Galassi (TJ), Veronica Santos-Fuentes (Obed), Edward Huazo, and Ian Irving; mother, Celia Portillo (Guillermo); cherished grandchildren Gage, Dominic, Alessandra, Daniel, and Lucas; sisters Diana, Elizabeth, Flor, and Sandra; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

A celebration of Blanca’s life will be held from 1-3 p.m. Saturday, July 18, 2026 at Valley Pines Senior Living, 6117 Charlevoix Woods Ct. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.