Maria Dolores Sanchez

It is with deep sorrow and fond remembrance that we announce the passing of Maria Dolores Sanchez, lovingly known as Mama Dolores, Mama Maria, and Mallé. Born on October 22, 1949, in Tepic, Nayarit, Mexico, and raised in Atolinga, Zacatecas, Mexico, Maria's journey through life was a testament to her strength, dedication, and boundless love.

Maria moved to Pasadena in 1976 and later resided in Altadena for the past five years. Her remarkable work ethic and unyielding spirit made her a cherished figure in the community. Maria's career included vital roles in senior retirement communities like Front Porch Villa Gardens and Sunrise San Marino, where she delighted in cooking for and caring for the elderly. Known affectionately as "Mama Dolores" and "Mama Maria," she earned the adoration of all who crossed her path. Her contributions also extended to Advanced Technology in the 1980s, where she worked as a technology parts inspector.

A proud mother of six, Maria's life was a model of perseverance and love. Alongside her late husband, Ruben Hermosillo, she raised Enrique "Henry" Hermosillo (spouse Veronica Hermosillo), Maria Gurrola (spouse Ignacio "Nacho" Velazquez), Zoila Arellano (spouse Samuel "Big Sam" Arellano), Yolanda Hermosillo, and Ruben Hermosillo (spouse Nidia Hermosillo). Ricardo Hermosillo, a cherished son, predeceased her.

Maria was also the beloved wife of Jose Manuel Sanchez for 27 years, and together they shared a life full of love and companionship. Her legacy extends to 22 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren, each of whom holds a special place in her heart. Though Maria's great-grandson, born on August 22, 2024, will not have had the chance to know her, her influence and spirit will be felt across generations.

In addition to her immediate family, Maria is survived by her siblings: Jose Arteaga (ex-spouse Francisca Arteaga), Maria De La Luz Santa Cruz (spouse Abel Santa Cruz), and Magdaleno Arteaga (spouse Gloria Arteaga). She was preceded in death by her siblings Antonio Arteaga (spouse Maria Arteaga) and Magdaleno Arteaga.

Maria's life was also enriched by the countless individuals she embraced as family, including her spouse's extended family and many others who became integral parts of her life. She will be remembered for her love of casinos, traveling, live music, dancing, and, most of all, for her boundless love for her family and friends.

A viewing will be held on Thursday, September 5, 2024, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., with a Rosary service at 4 p.m. Mass will be celebrated on Friday, September 6, 2024, at 12 p.m., followed by a graveside service at 2 p.m. All services will be held at Turner and Stevens Live Oak, 200 E. Duarte Rd., Monrovia, CA 91016.

In lieu of flowers, donations are welcomed. Maria Dolores Sanchez will be remembered as a warrior of a woman, a devoted daughter, sister, spouse, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, friend, neighbor, and a cherished member of the Pasadena community. Her spirit and love will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know her.

Rest in Heaven, Maria Dolores. Always Loved & Never Forgotten.