Grace Garcia Gonzales

Grace Garcia Gonzales was born on August 10, 1932 in Claremont, CA to Emilia and Severo Garcia. She adored her parents and spoke highly of them both and how gracious they were. Grace was the youngest of seven children, four sisters and two brothers.

Grace was curious and a lifelong learner who always loved to expand her knowledge. In high school, she was an outstanding student, independent and headstrong. She was quite popular and was involved in sports and other activities. After high school, she studied grapho-analysis, self-hypnosis, and other areas that interested her.

After high school, Grace was hired by AT&T and was the first Hispanic long-distance operator in Pomona, CA. Over the years she held several positions, but she was most proud of her role in the Aerospace industry. She was a strong, hard worker who strived for the best.

Grace married her high school sweetheart, the love of her life, Charles Gonzales, on June 5, 1954 in La Verne, CA. Later, they moved to Riverside where Charles began his career as a police officer. They then had their three daughters: Karen, Donna and Patricia. Grace drove a VW bug with three small daisy flowers painted on the side to represent the girls. They enjoyed going on car rides together.

A truly amazing wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, Grace showered her family with love and support. They all absolutely adored her. Her sense of humor was beyond compare. She always found hilarious comics in the newspaper or a greeting card with a message that undoubtedly would make you smile. She had a sweet charisma about her that captured the attention of her doctors, friends and family. She was her family's role model for her unwavering faith, courage and strength: especially, in light of daunting health issues. She moved through life with an effortless grace and quiet elegance that her name implies. Grace was feisty and did not hesitate to stand up for the good of all. She had a sense of whimsy that intrigued all that met her. When you think of her, images of butterflies, ladybugs, art, children and humor all come to mind. She was filled with a sense of curiosity about the world. Grace was an animated, kind and generous soul. Grace will be so greatly missed by family and friends.

Grace passed away peacefully on February 6, 2020 surrounded by her loving family. She is survived by her husband of 67 years, Charles Gonzales: daughters, Karen Gonzales, Donna Knox, and Trish Presley; granddaughters, Dr. Alexa Elliott Sales and Katie Knox: and great-grandchildren, Scotty and Bella.

The family will hold a mass on March 9, 2020 at St. Catherine of Alexandria Catholic Church - 3680 Arlington Ave, Riverside, CA 92506 at 10:00. Following the mass, a graveside ceremony will be held at Olivewood Cemetery located at 3300 Central Ave, Riverside CA 92506.