Maria Mendoza

Maria Natalia Mendoza, 74, of Safford went to be with the Lord on November 13, 2009. Maria was born on December 1, 1934 to Jose and Cecilia Gonzales in Ft Thomas Arizona. She attended school there and graduated from Ft. Thomas High School. On June 5, 1953 Maria married Ismael Mendoza at the St. Rose of Lima Catholic church. They were blessed with four children. Maria was very involved in church and also enjoyed cake decorating, reading, crocheting, but most of all she loved to spend time with her family especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Maria is survived by her spouse Ismael Mendoza; 3 children Dolores Cardenas (Oscar Cardenas), Ismael J Mendoza Jr., and George G. Mendoza; her sisters Margaret Avila, Josefina Peru, and Rosalia Paiz; 4 grandchildren; and 2 great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents Jose and Cecilia Gonzales; her sister Rosa Meraz; and her daughter Theresa Mendoza. Funeral Mass will be held Wednesday, November 18, 2009 at St. Rose of Lima at 10:00. A viewing will be held Tuesday, November 17, 2009 at St Rose of Lima beginning at 6:00 p.m. with the Rosary at 7:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Safford Cemetery.