Dora Gonzales

Dora Maldonado Gonzales went to eternal rest on September 2, 2020 in San Antonio, Texas.

Dora was born on November 16, 1929 in Corpus Christi, Texas. She spent her early years on the Chapman Ranch near Corpus Christi. She later moved to the city of Corpus Christi. She graduated from Corpus Christi High School and attended Del Mar College. She met and married Orlando Gonzales and had her two children, Lonnie and Elizabeth in Corpus Christi. She and Orlando took a leap of faith and moved to San Antonio as a family to allow Orlando to pursue his career goals with HEB Grocery.

Dora is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Orlando Gonzales, her parents Luis and Maria (Salinas) Maldonado, her sister, Alicia Maldonado and her brother, Albert Maldonado.  She is survived by her children Lonnie Gonzales (Patty) and Elizabeth Gonzales (Kim); grandchildren Erica Barron, Lauren Campos (Randy) and Nathan Gonzales; great-grandchildren Bianca Diaz, Luke Campos and Oliver Campos; former daughter-in-law Tina Teel-Gonzales and many nieces and nephews.

Dora greatly enjoined sewing and created many beautiful outfits for herself and her family including elaborate costumes for Elizabeth and Lauren. She used her knowledge of fabrics and sewing while working in the fabric department of JC Penney for many years. Upon her retirement, she spent time watching her favorite sports and television shows, shopping and visiting local restaurants with her family and friends. Her dearest friends were her cousin Martha Ruiz and Patricia Baradziej (BJ), whom she spoke with daily on the phone until her passing.

Dora was devoted to her faith, family and friends and was the pillar of support for her family.  She always kept in contact with her numerous relatives. Her often daily calls and sense of humor will be dearly missed.  Some of her happiest times were family holiday gatherings at the family ranch near La Vernia. Dora lived her life for her family and her joy was watching her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Viewing and visitation will be on Wednesday, September 16, 2020 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Chapel Hill Funeral Home with the Rosary recited at 6:00 p.m.  The Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, September 17, 2020 at 1:15 p.m. at St. Monica Catholic Church in Converse, with a private burial ceremony following at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.

Thank you to all the family and friends who have been part of Dora’s life.  Special thanks are given to Ms. Betty and the other caregivers who assisted Dora during this past year. Due to these complicated times, we know we can’t all be together to celebrate her life, but we will always be together in spirit.