Maria De Jesus Gonzalez, passed away unexpectedly after a brief illness. She was loved by so many who knew her and were touched by her generosity, love and tenderness.

Maria was born in Vista Hermosa de Negrete Michoacán, Mexico. She married Juan Gonzalez in her hometown in 1956. In 1974, she moved along with her family to Pittsburg. There she was a homemaker, balancing that with running her kids to little league and soccer. She did her best to never miss a game. In the 1980's she served as an anti-drug advocate for Latino children and as a yard duty at Foothill Elementary. She proudly became a United States citizen in 1986. It was also in the 1980's that she discovered Bingo! The game served as both, a therapeutic outlet, and social one. She met and maintained many friendships there. Maria was a devoted catholic who never missed weekly mass at St. Peter Martyr. She loved her Chiweenie, T-bone, who she called "Pi-Pi-Lepew,' and took out for walks every morning. Maria was diagnosed with end-stage renal disease in 2005 and wasn't given much of a chance, by her kidney doctor, to live long. But, as with most everything, she battled it head on, started dialysis, and never let it slowed down her life or ambitions. She still traveled to Mexico, Las Vegas, southern California and points beyond. At a little over 100 lbs., she was tougher than those twice her size. Every winter, she would buy new blankets to donate to families who could not afford them, regardless of her financial situation. At times even spending every dollar she had on them.

Maria is survived by her 11 children, 28 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. Also, 4 sisters and 3 brothers. She joins her loving husband, Juan, in heaven. Along with her parents and sister.

Friends and family are invited to a visitation on Thursday, Aug. 27, 2015 from 4-8pm at the Pittsburg Funeral Chapel. Funeral liturgy Friday, Aug. 28, 2105at 1:00pm at St. Peter Martyr Church. Committal services following at Holy Cross Cemetery, Antioch.