Lydia Gonzales died peacefully on May 29, 2022 surrounded by her family after a long battle with Parkinson’s. A memorial mass was held on Friday, June 3rd, 2022 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

She will be laid to rest at Valley View Cemetery on Saturday, August 6th at 10:00 with a final blessing.

Lydia was born on December 4, 1937 in Garden City to Jane & Louis Mendoza. She was a graduate of Garden City Community College and received her B.A. from St. Mary of the Plains in Dodge City, KS. Surviving is her son, Joe Louis of the home, Joseph

Surviving is her son, Joe Louis of the home, Joseph and Manny, her grandsons whom she raised, Lucinda Jones (Oliver), Kansas City, KS, Sabina Gonzales, Olathe, KS, Chuck Gonzales, Gardner, KS and Virginia Thoppil (Jojo), Ashburn, VA. She has ten grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and two greatgreat grandchildren. Her husband, Joe and daughter, Angie, her parents and her sisters, Alice and Ramona and her brothers, Louis and Tony, all preceded her in death.

Lydia will be remembered for her community involvement and impact on students at GCCC, where in her job as a LNESC counselor, she mentored and advocated for higher education for students. A memorial garden is being planned to honor her work of helping her community and students grow, thrive and bloom.

After a final farewell, a luncheon will be held from 11 – 2 at the Senior Center for family and friends to share fond memories and fellowship.