Maria Luisa Mesa

Maria Luisa Villarreal Rojas was born on February 16, 1921 in Havana, Cuba. She was the first of three daughters to Pedro Villarreal and Julia Rojas. She was raised to be a kind and loving child and grew up in a religious and loving home. She was a loving and caring sister to Zoilita and Dorita. Maria Luisa blossomed into a beautiful young lady and met Aldo Mesa whom she married April 18, 1943. They were blessed with six beautiful children, Aldo, Tony, Alberto, Theresa, Maria, and Rosa. Life was wonderful for the family, until a turn of events that would change their lives forever. In 1962, they were forced to leave their beloved country and family to start a new life in the United States. They first settled in Miami, Florida, but soon looking for better opportunities, the family relocated to Las Vegas, Nevada. Adjusting to life in their new country was difficult for the family of nine. She found herself having to work outside of the home for the first time in her life. With determination and hard work, she and Aldo rebuilt their lives. Throughout the years, her family grew to include 14 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. In 1989, she was faced with the devastating loss of her beloved husband; life without him would be very difficult. After his passing, she moved in with Theresa and her family where she filled their home with her tender love. Not a day went by where she wasn’t surrounded by the love of her family. There were baptisms, first communions, confirmations, weddings, graduations, and family vacations where she was the center of every event. Almost two years ago, she was faced with the devastating loss of her first born, Aldo. She remained strong for her family, reaffirming her faith in the love of God. Though determined not to show her grief, we knew her heart was broken and she would never be the same. Fortunately a few months ago, we were able to enjoy one last family vacation together to Miami where she was able to visit with friends and family; some of which she had not seen in fifty years. Soon after she returned home, she declined in health very quickly and God called her home to heaven on March 8, 2014. She had an exceptionally happy and healthy life and brought so much joy to all of her family. Filled with so many talents, she loved her flowers and spending time in her garden. She was an excellent seamstress and could embroider and crochet beautiful works of art. Mima was also an amazing cook who enjoyed sharing her recipes and teaching others. Her ability to retain and recite poetry was incredible; she was sharing it with us until her final days. Our Mima was the matriarch of this family and her wisdom, strength, love and angelic smile will be deeply missed. Arrangements under the direction of Palm Eastern Mortuary, Las Vegas, NV.