Katherine T. Gonzales

Katherine T. Gonzales, age 94, passed away in her home on January 12, 2019 surrounded by her family. She was just 12 days shy of her 95th birthday, which she would have celebrated on January 24th. She was born in San Antonio, Texas where she lived with her parents, Ramon and Refugia and her six siblings, Raymond, Harold, Fidencio, Dolores, Jeannie and Connie.

Katherine later moved to Saginaw, Michigan where she met her husband, Ben Gonzales. They met at a party thrown for Ben when he returned from the Army. She was merely 19 years old when they decided to marry in 1944. Their marriage sparked the beginning of a lifetime of happiness, memories and beautiful family lineage. Katherine and Ben had two children, Cynthia and Benny Jr. The four of them moved from Michigan to California in search of opportunity and, of course, better weather.

An incredible wife and mother, Katherine worked for the Hueneme School District as an instructional assistant but her most prized position was that of a mother. She loved being a homemaker and took pride in making her home feel comfortable and welcoming to all. Ben and Katherine, or Kate as many called her, enjoyed social activities such as dancing, listening to music, bowling, walks and spending time with family.

Ben and Katherine’s 75 beautiful years of marriage created quite a legacy. Katherine is survived by her children, Cynthia DeRueda (Louis) and Benny Gonzales Jr.; and 11 grandchildren, Kim (Shawn), Lauren, Matthew, Tina, Tammy, Benny Jr., Christopher, Kendall, Kelsey, Bryan and Bradley. Katherine was even lucky enough to get to know her three great-grandchildren, Kaydam, Sadie and Hudson. In the eyes of her family, and all those who love her dearly, Katherine was the epitome of perfection. She will be greatly missed.

A Vigil will be held on Mon, Jan 21st from 6pm – 8pm at the Chapel of the Hills at Conejo Mountain Funeral Home in Camarillo, California. A Funeral Mass will be held on Tues, Jan 22nd at 10am at Padre Serra Parish in Camarillo, CA with interment to follow at Conejo Mountain Memorial Park. 

...Family in the care of Erin Arteaga, Funeral Director