Obituary for Ramona Gonzalez

Ramona Gonzalez was born in California at the Santa Ana Ranch on November 16, 1938. She was the second youngest of 10 siblings. At the age of 16 she married her husband of 50 years, Raymond Gonzalez. In the 1950’s she and Raymond moved to Brea, CA where they raised their 8 children plus their oldest grandchild, Sonia. She was known as Nana to her grandchildren, and as Tessie to her extended family. Ramona worked at the Brea Mall in the shipping and receiving department of Sears for over 30 years until she retired in 2003.

To the very end, Ramona enjoyed life. She and Raymond took pleasure in their annual tradition of Valentine’s dates at Senor Campos restaurant, and going for a cruise on Sundays. After Raymond passed, she kept herself busy doing the things she loved such as: attending events at the senior center, making trips to the casino, dressing up for Halloween, throwing herself parties, dancing, and just generally being the center of attention. Her greatest joy was surrounding herself with family for whom she would make menudo, tortillas, tamales, and of course, her famous potato salad. She also loved watching TV at top volume so she could hear her favorite shows such as Family Feud, Perry Mason, General Hospital, and whatever dramatic movie was playing on the Lifetime channel.

Ramona loved holidays and made sure she looked her best for each occasion. Even at 85 years old, she liked having her nails done, her eyebrows waxed, her hair colored, and a new outfit. Christmas was her favorite time of  the year, and while she always wanted new decorations for her house, she also made certain that each and every member of the family always got a card and a gift from her. 

Ramona was preceded in death by her husband Raymond, her daughters Brenda and Mandy, and her son Stevie. She is survived by her brothers John (Jock) Castillo and Albert (Beto) Castillo, as well as her children Jeannie Gonzalez, Laurie Armas, Rebecca Gonzalez, Ray Gonzalz and Jeff Gonzalez; in addition, she is survived by 25 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.