Mary B. Gonzales

Mary was born on July 22, 1919 to Joseph Burruel and Eloisa Gonzalez. Mary was the eldest of 7 children: Arturo, Manuel, Josie, Dora, Angie, and Chuy.

During the Depression, Mary and her family traveled the southwest. While her father looked for work she assisted with raising her siblings.

In the early 1940's Mary worked at Convair assisting with the war effort. During the war, Mary began exchanging letters with Ralph Gonzales. After a short courtship, they exchanged vows on September 11, 1944.

Mary and Ralph lived in San Diego the rest of her life (in Logan Heights on Julian Ave until 1978 and then to their current residence on Morrison Street). They shared 68 years of marriage and raised 10 children (2 from a previous marriage): Henry, Manuel , Richard, Raymond, Andrew, Ralph, Linda, Eloise, Sandra, and Gloria.

Mary had 21 grandchildren, 34 great grandchildren, and 3 great great grandchildren.

During her time Mary helped raise not only her children but many of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She never closed her doors to anyone and was always there to listen and give great advice. Her sense of humor was always present and her smile was infectious. She enjoyed herself by playing the penny slots at Barona Casino, working on word puzzles, watching games shows on television, and spending time with her family. The more people she had in her home the happier she was. She is missed and will always be loved. Mary is survived by her husband Ralph and her four daughters: Linda, Eloise, Sandra, and Gloria (and her many grand, great, and great-great-grandchildren).

Viewing is Monday, August 12, 2013 from 5 ~ 9 p.m. with a Rosary prayed at 6:30 p.m.