It is with heavy hearts that we share the loss of Maria Cruz (Cruzita) Gonzales. Maria left this world on Monday, September 30, 2024, while residing in Austin, Texas, at the age of 86. Born on May 1, 1938, in Redford, Texas, to Isidra Ramirez and Pedro Moreno. Following her early years, Maria Cruz moved to Marfa, Texas. In 1965, she married Lionel “Leo” Gonzales and devoted herself to her family, contributing to the family business while actively participating in the Marfa community and St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Maria Cruz was well known for her baking and incredible talents in sewing, knitting and crocheting.
She was preceded in death by her parents and dear husband, Lionel. Maria Cruz is survived by her two children, Peter John Gonzales (Melissa) and Melva Gonzales Mason (Richard); two grandchildren, Olivia Rose Mason and Ava Cruz Mason; her sister Marcelina Shellenberger (Al), brother Victor Moreno, and sister-in-law Ilda Gonzalez (Oscar).
A service to honor Maria Cruz was held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Marfa, Texas, on Saturday, October 12, 2024. The day commenced with the viewing at 9 a.m., followed by the Rosary at 10:30 a.m. and Mass at 11 a.m. Burial took place at the Cementerio de la Merced in Marfa. A gathering followed at St. Mary’s Catholic Church Hall. Services were entrusted to Alpine Memorial Funeral Home and gifts and condolences may be left at www.alpinememorialfuneralhome.com.
