2025 Recently Departed

- Marilu Velarde
- Born: August 7th, 1948 / Deceased July 4th, 2025
  
  She was a strong independent woman with love and faith so powerful towards God that it was unbreakable. She loved her family with all her heart and she treated people with love and kindness. She was very friendly, caring, and funny. She was always ready to serve God; she was always spreading God's word and worship. She suffered losses but found strength through Jesus Christ our Lord. The parable of the good Samaritan described her perfectly because she was always ready to help people in need. She was an instrument of God, a mother who sacrificed a lot for us and the best of friends.
- Monica Gonzales
- Born July 7, 1967 / Deceased Jun 28, 2025
  
  Monica was a beacon of light who touched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her presence filled rooms with warmth and laughter, and her kindness left indelible marks on hearts. Today, as we gather to honor Monica’s memory, we celebrate her journey, her accomplishments, and the beautiful legacy she leaves behind. Monica’s life was a testament to the power of living with purpose. She approached every day with enthusiasm and commitment, whether she was dedicating herself to her profession, her family, or her community. Her passion for her work was matched only by her love for those around her. Monica believed deeply in giving back, and her selflessness was evident in how she volunteered her time and resources to causes close to her heart. To her family and friends, Monica was a source of unwavering support and unconditional love. She had a unique ability to make everyone feel valued and appreciated, creating bonds that lasted a lifetime. Her laughter was infectious, her advice wise, and her hugs comforting. Monica’s relationships were built on trust, honesty, and deep affection, and those who knew her cherished the privilege of having her in their lives. Monica was a person of remarkable talent and determination. Her achievements spanned various fields, reflecting her versatility and drive. Whether she was excelling in her career, mastering a new skill, or pursuing creative endeavors, Monica inspired others to aim high and to never stop learning. She was a mentor to many, always willing to share her knowledge and experience. Monica’s kindness was her hallmark. She believed in the importance of uplifting others and often went out of her way to help those in need. From small gestures like leaving uplifting notes to grand acts of generosity, Monica demonstrated that kindness could change the world. Her legacy is one of compassion—an enduring reminder to strive for empathy and understanding in our own lives. Although Monica’s absence leaves a profound void, her memory brings solace and inspiration. We remember her not only for the beautiful moments we shared but also for the lessons she taught us: to embrace life fully, love deeply, and make a positive impact wherever we can. Monica’s essence lives on in the stories we tell, the memories we treasure, and the values she embodied. As we reflect on Monica’s remarkable life, let us celebrate her spirit by carrying forward her love and light. Whether it’s through acts of kindness, pursuing passions, or cherishing relationships, we honor Monica by embracing the values she held dear. Her life may have been a chapter closed, but her story continues in the lives she touched. Monica was more than a person; she was a force of nature, a symbol of hope, and a bringer of joy. Her life reminds us of the beauty of living authentically and the power of making a difference. Though she is no longer with us, Monica’s legacy remains—an eternal flame lighting the way for those who come after her. Rest in peace, Monica. You will forever be loved and remembered.
- Erma Lehr
- Born: March 13, 1916 / Deceased May 23, 2025
  
  Erma Anna Lehr was born in Louisville, Ky on March 13, 1916, of full German heritage to Matthew and Mary Koreck.
  
  Erma was one of six siblings. 2 brothers Peter and Matthew, and 3 sisters Elizabeth, Margaret and Catherine.
  
  Erma was married on Feb 6, 1932, to James Lehr, Sr and was happily married for 72 years and raised 2 adopted children James (deceased) and Susan.
  
  Erma was a homemaker most of her life. During WW 2 she worked in a factory manufacturing guns and during the Vietnam war worked in a Gun Powder plant.
  
  Erma lived in Kentucky, California, New Orleans (her favorite place to live), Florida and Texas the last 4 years to be close to her daughter.
  
  Erma was a loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother.
  
  Erma was a lifelong Catholic attending mass regularly and always said her nightly prayers.
  
  Erma enjoyed life to the fullest
  telling stories about her life, always had a smile on her face and was content with her life.
  
  Erma attained the ripe old age of 109 out living all her siblings.
- Lupe Bernal
- Born August 10th, 1939 / Deceased March 27th, 2025
  
  Born on August 10th, 1939 to parents Enrique & Petra Jimenez. Her life was truly a blessing, a direct answer to her father’s prayers. Having prayed to Our Lady of Guadalupe for a daughter, her father felt God’s blessing to answered prayer and named her after Our Lady. She was the only girl among four brothers, and she was the last of her siblings to pass away. She was married to Isidor Bernal for 33 years until his passing in 1991. Guadalupe is survived by her three children: Russ, Roberta, and Ronald Bernal and her beloved niece, Fannie. Guadalupe was a proud grandmother to nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, and was the family matriarch. She had a passion for gardening, reading the Word of God, interceding in prayer for others, and watching her Spanish soap operas. Family was her greatest joy, and the holidays, especially Christmas, were particularly meaningful to her, as they reminded her of her father, to whom she was deeply devoted. She lived her life with a strong commitment to Christ. She wasn’t afraid to speak the truth, even if it wasn’t always what others wanted to hear. She spoke the truth with love and honesty. The pearls of wisdom she leaves behind are to be honest, real and remain loyal to the word. Never give up, fight until the very end, no matter the length of the battle and trust God. She knew God’s love, His forgiveness, and the favor He showed her.
  She cherished her grandchildren deeply, seeing a piece of herself in each of them. Her greatest desire was for them to know the love of their Heavenly Father and experience the blessings of His grace.
  Guadalupe’s legacy is one of love, faith, and a relentless devotion to her family and to God.