With immense heartache, the Valencia and Mendoza family share the passing of Maricela Mendoza Gonzales: beloved mother, sister, daughter, niece, cousin, and friend. On November 8, our lionhearted Mari transitioned peacefully among her loved ones after a 14-month-long fight with stage IV pancreatic cancer. As we try to navigate this grief while handling all the responsibilities that follow, we ask for your kindness, comfort, and memories to give her a special sendoff into the afterlife.

Mari was incredibly generous with her heart and compassion. Known for offering her home to all friends and family in times of need and uncertainty, Mari made sure that no one ever felt hungry, cold, or unsafe in her care. Her embraces were transcendental, a firm reminder that the sun always rises for a new day to laugh and love unconditionally. Though she carried herself with such modesty and poise, she emanated this indomitable shine that lit our souls aglow with kindness. To know her is to be loved.

Mari leaves behind her life partner Arturo, her siblings Rene, Brenda, Irene, Elva, Chief, and Sammy, her mother Irene, and her sons Nathan and Andy. She told her family how much she loves them every day. She will be felt in pastel floral bouquets, bright and spicy chicken soups in the wintertime, Nicolas Cage movies, procedural crime shows, the rip of a Pokemon pack, and every Dodger win (how lucky she was to have seen the Dodgers win the World Series back to back).

Just as how she fought to have her entire family around her for her final moments, Mari’s wish was to have a burial and a memorial where all of her friends, colleagues, and extended family could attend (Lil Miss Popular!). We want to provide her with the celebration she deserves and come together to affirm that in all of our days ahead, we will choose and practice love.

Our most immediate need is to lay Maricela to rest with a respectful farewell. Any help on your end will cover the full cost of her funeral, burial, and service.

With love and gratitude,

Nathan, Andy, Arturo, and Family