Maria Rosario Mendoza

Maria “Ama” Mendoza, 77, loving mother, wife, grandmother and great-grandmother passed away on 11/11/2014 peacefully at home in Toppenish surrounded by all her loved ones. She was born in Villa Victoria, Michoacán Mexico to Nemecio Reyes and Maria Ayala on 01/18/1937. She met and married Tabias Mendoza then moved the family to the United States in 1974; they eventually settled in Toppenish where they raised their 14 children.

Mom was a big part of St. Aloysius Catholic Church. She dedicated many years serving as a member of The Guadalupanas. Anyone who knew our mother will tell you that she gave with no expectations. She always welcomed with open arms and offered a hot plate on a crowded table with a big smile. Our fondest memories growing up are of mom in the kitchen baking her famous “buñuelos,” homemade Mexican cheese and her amazing tamales, which no one could ever duplicate. We will forever miss our Sunday gatherings and her delicious home cooked meals. She had a heart of gold, not only did she dedicate her life to raising her own children but many children of the Toppenish community. Spending time with her grandchildren and great –grandchildren brought her lots of joy and smile that could light up the room. She raised us with family values of trust, respect and giving to one another.

The first signs of dementia came in 2004, as it progressed and she was no longer able to cook, she looked forward to her trips to Backwoods Café where she enjoyed pancakes and French toast and her visits with her daughter, Dora. Many thanks to our eldest sister, Maria Elena, for opening her home and caring for our mother with no limitations.

Maria is survived by her husband, our father, Tobias Mendoza; 10 children: Maria Elena (Juan) Mendoza of Toppenish; Albert Mendoza of Mexico ; Aurelia Mendoza of CA; Dora (Juan) Vega of Moxee; Rodrigo Mendoza of Mexico; Judy (Andres) Botello of Yakima; Lucy (Sam) Guerrero of Yakima; Alma Mendoza of Moxee; Tobias (Jessica) Mendoza Jr. of NV; Sandra (Oscar) Cuevas of Yakima as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. Mom was proceeded in death by her parents, numerous brothers and sisters, 4 children, Trinidad, Jesus, Rosa and Francisco Mendoza and grandson, Juan Vega III.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, November 17th at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, followed by a Graveside Interment at Terrace Heights Cemetery.

To share a memory of Maria “Ama” Mendoza, visit www. Keithandkeith.com