Luiza Mendes

Luiza Mendes, age 78, died peacefully on November 25th with her husband, children and grandchildren by her side. Luiza was born December 4,1946, in São Mateus, Terceira, Açores. She immigrated to California, United States from Angola, Africa alongside her husband, 2 children, and her mother in 1973.

On September 2, 1965 she married the love of her life, Tarcisio Vaz Mendes. Together they welcomed their daughter Vanda Maria Mendes and son Joe Tarsicio Mendes. In 1973,they moved to California, eventually settling in Santa Clara, where she would stay until her passing.

A woman of profound faith, Luiza was a true child of God. She attended church faithfully from early childhood, and her relationship with God remained the cornerstone of her life.

Luiza also had a deep passion for gardening and cooking. You could either always find her in the garden tending her flowers, especially orchids, and plants. Or she would be in the kitchen cooking delicious dishes to feed all of those she loved.

Above all else, Luiza cherished her family. Her greatest joy was her seven grandchildren, Michael, Bryan, Christian, Crystal, Brandon, Justin, and Angelina. She loved being Vavó to all of them, and they, in turn, filled her with endless joy. She will forever be missed by her entire family, and we feel so lucky to have had our Mom/Vavó, spoiling and loving us all.

Luiza is survived by her son and daughter - Joe and wife Thelma, and Vanda and husband Jose and her grandchildren, all of whom brought her immeasurable happiness. _________________________________________

Funeral Services:

Rosary - Thursday, December 11 @ 6pm - Lima Family Santa Clara Mortuary (466 N. Winchester Blvd, Santa Clara, CA 95050)

Mass - Friday, December 12 @ 12:30pm - St. Clare Church (941 Lexington Street, Santa Clara, CA 95050)

Burial - Friday, December 12 @ 2pm - Santa Clara Mission Cemetery (490 Lincoln St. Santa Clara CA. 9050)

Celebration of Life Reception / Get Together - Friday, December 12 following Burial - S.E.S. Portuguese Hall Bldg B (1375 Lafayette Street, Santa Clara, CA 95050)