Ann Gonzales Obituary

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ann Gonzales, age 96, of Calumet City, Illinois. Ann passed away peacefully on May 28, 2025, surrounded by her large loving family. Born July 26, 1928 in Corpus Christi, Texas to Tomas and Adela (née Villarreal) Castillo.
She was the third youngest of 10 siblings (Manuel, Mary, Angeline, Tino, David, Charlie, Dolly, Irene, and Emma). Ann lived a long and meaningful life. Her early childhood was spent on the farms in Texas where her family lived and worked. When she was around 8 years old they moved to the southside of Chicago, Illinois. This is where she eventually met and married her late husband of almost 60 years, Robert Gonzales. They raised their 6 children in South Chicago and Roseland and eventually moved to Calumet City where they spent their later years being grandparents to their 11 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren. Though she never traveled far or sought out material riches, she was abundantly blessed with the love of her family and friends. Ann's life was not always easy, but she faced every challenge with quiet strength, a ready smile, and a contagious laugh.
Ann was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert, who passed away 17 years ago, as well as her sons, Robert Gonzales (Cathy) and Steve Gonzales (Jan). She is survived by her devoted children Christine Griffin (David), Andre Gonzales, Ruby Vandas (Jim), and Vivian Gonzales. Ann's legacy continues through her numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.
Along with helping raise grandchildren Tanya, Steven, and Angela, she helped raise her great-grandson, Michael-and was a loving and constant presence in the daily lives of her great-grandchildren: Jasmine, Antonio, Mason, Addison and her dearest Marisol (Baby) who filled her days with love and laughter. Ann also looked forward to numerous surprise and holiday visits over the years from her loving grandchildren who lived further away (Lara, Jean, Kenny, Sherry, Tina, Julie, Dave, Kevin) and numerous great-grandchildren. She spent her later years in the warm care of her granddaughter, Angela.
Ann cherished the simple joys in life-a good meal, a family gathering, and the comfort of those she loved most. Among the things she enjoyed most were: instant lottery tickets (the winning kind!), shopping, and Gayety's ice-cream on a hot summer day. Her greatest pride was her family, and her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Ann Gonzales will be deeply missed, but the love she gave and the lessons she taught will remain with us always.
Our family would like to express our heart-felt gratitude to Barb Corey for the kind and immeasurable support and companionship she provided Ann in the last two years of her life.
Ann will be honored with a "Celebration of Life" memorial on Sunday, June 8th from 1pm-4pm. It will be held at the home she shared with her granddaughter Angela Gonzales: 1064 Virginia St. Calumet City, IL 60409. Anyone who knew and loved Ann is welcome to come and pay their respects. If you cannot attend, the family asks that you honor and remember Ann's strong, giving, and joyful spirit by sharing a meal with your loved ones.
Arrangements entrusted to Castle Hill Funeral Homes of Calumet City, Illinois and Dyer, Indiana.
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