Gloria N. Gonzalez, affectionately “Nana,” was born September 28, 1951, to parents Maria and Agustin Navarrette in Hollister, California. Gloria was a beacon of love and strength who left this earth on July 26, 2023, but the endless memories of her will live on forever in our hearts. She is survived by her husband of 43 years, Felipe and her children whom she adored, Vivian (Maurice) Saicon; MaryEllen Galvan; Mendi Torres; and Felipe Jr.; her grandchildren, Coby, Bryce, Noah, Lucas, Felipe III, Joaquin and her only princess, Liliana, were Nana’s pride and joy; her loving sisters Lupe (John) Reyna and Lena Avila (Roberto Cortez); her nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of friends. She also leaves behind her fur pal Max who was always at her side.
Gloria was an entrepreneur who owned and operated The Wave Beauty Salon for over 50 years. Her clients were her second family, and she was dedicated to making each and every one look more beautiful than when they arrived. For several years she also owned a Curves women’s fitness center where some members became her dear friends. And as if she was not busy enough, she would find time to provide in-home cosmetology services for the elderly residing at a nursing facility in Sanger. Gloria dedicated her professional life to serving women – helping them look good and feel good is what filled her soul. With a servant’s heart, her hands always found something to do, and it was always for good.
Gloria was a dedicated mother, Nana, wife, sister, and friend who loved helping people. She would often buy from solicitors that would stop at the beauty shop selling fruits and vegetables just to help them earn some cash. She also had a knack for rescuing animals – nursing a bird back to good health happened regularly. She loved her garden of flowers, succulents, and topiary bushes, and she would spend countless hours manicuring them. All 10 fingers were green, not just her thumb. She was also a raving Dallas Cowboy’ fan – and yes, there were rivals in the family. She loved arts and crafts, and crocheting. She was nurturing, cared deeply, radiated kindness, and her love was unconditional.
Gloria saw every day as a gift, especially after undergoing an emergency liver transplant on November 3, 2014. Her youngest daughter, Mendi, became her living donor and this act of love and courage blessed her with the gift of life for eight and a half years. Above all, spending time with her family was a constant. She enjoyed celebrating all the holidays, birthdays, and even “just because” days, with her children and grandchildren. Preparing weekend potlucks was a regular at Nana’s and she found pleasure being in the presence of those she loved, savoring every moment. Nana was her grandchildren’s number one fan, and she faithfully attended their school events as often as possible. Nana was the rock for her family and a pillar of strength for many. Although her absence is felt, her existence is everlasting.
Gloria was preceded in death by her beloved parents Agustin and Maria Navarrette. Her life will be honored with a viewing on August 7, 2023 from 4-7 p.m. at Lisle Funeral Home (1605 L St, Fresno) and a mass at Saint John’s Cathedral (2814 Mariposa Street, Fresno) on August 8, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. Interment will follow at Saint Peter’s Cemetery (264 N. Blythe Ave. Fresno). In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Donate Life California (donatelifecalifornia.org) in the name of Gloria N. Gonzalez to help save lives through organ donation.
Serving as pallbearers are Maurice Saicon, Felipe Gonzalez Jr., Coby McAlister II, Bryce McAlister, Noah Saicon, Felipe Gonzalez III, Lucas Saicon and Joaquin Gonzalez.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.lislefuneralhome.com for the Gonzalez family.
