Maria Romelia Elizondo, née Sanchez, was born to Ciro and Esperanza Sanchez in Tamaulipas, Mexico in 1956. The third of seven children, she was known as a child for being shy but stubborn, a trait that followed her into adulthood. Maria grew up in the Bridgeport and Pilsen neighborhoods of Chicago, Illinois after the family emigrated in the early 1960’s.
The overwhelming truth of Maria Elizondo is that she loved her family deeply. She is remembered as beloved mother, abuela, sister, tía and friend. Nicknamed “Goose” by her siblings, Maria, was known for being the loving mother with her “baby chicks” always in tow. Her most beloved nickname was “Wela”, the title given to her by her six grandchildren. Maria married Maximiliano Elizondo in November, 1971. They lovingly parented Maria Elena and Humberto together even after the end of their marriage in 1993. They continued as loving friends who looked out for each other throughout their lives.
Maria Elizondo, while hardworking, prioritized family over career. Maria was a mix of quiet, with a streak of wild. She had a witty sense of humor and a huge heart. She loved having a great time, drinking tequila, dancing, especially to cumbias, parties, spicy food, and exercising her very free spirit. She was such a fantastic dancer that she won a few cumbia dance competitions. What defined her, however, was the way that she quietly and selflessly would show up to care for people when times were toughest. Maria nursed family members through breakups, illness, tragedy, and loneliness as a steady, loving presence when most needed. Her warm beautiful smile and loving hugs made you feel like everything was going to be ok. She had the ability to make people feel safe and relaxed no matter what else was burning in the background. Maria was a defiant spirit who refused to let an over 8 year battle with cancer dim her spirits or her yearning to live her best life. No matter how sick she was, she was always determined. When anyone else would have broken, Maria stayed strong. Through her, we know what strength and courage really look like.
Maria Elizondo is survived by her parents, and by 5 of her siblings, Delfina, Marcelo, Paula (Miguel), Maria (Pedro), and Herman (Rosa). She is also survived by her children, Maria Elena Doherty (Michael) and Humberto Elizondo (Lisa) and her six grandchildren, Eliana, Antonio, Tito, Aryanna, Annamaria, and Isaiah, and a host of beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews. She is preceded in death by her loving brother, Juan Sanchez, and her grandparents, Maria and Octaviano Camacho, Bruna and Abram Sanchez.
A celebration of life for Maria will be on Saturday, January 21, 2023 from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Ridge Funeral Home, (Edward A.Tylka, Manager), 6620 West Archer Ave, Chicago, IL 60638. Services Conclude this Evening. For Info. call 773-586-7900 or visit www.ridgefh.com.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ridgefh.com for the Elizondo family.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
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