Ermelinda Garza was born in Gilroy, California on April 23, 1954. She passed away on August 10, 2007 after a long battle with cancer. She is survived by her husband, Jorge Garza; children (and spouses) George Luis Garza (Rochelle), Michael Garza (Andrea), Nadine and Sylvia Garza, Angelica (Carlos) Gonzalez; grandchildren Priscilla, Elijah and Josiah Garza; Felipe Palacios; Joseph and Isaiah Caudillo, Kristen Aguirre; Carlos, Jr., Michael and Maya Gonzalez; Nathaniel and Leah Garza and Peter Mastroieni. Ermelinda is also survived by brothers, Martin A. Gonzales; Frank (Rosie) Gonzales; Manuel E. Alfaro; and Johnny (Antonia) Gonzales; sisters, Diana (Santos) Garcia; Maria (Tony) Gonzalez, Gloria (Raymond) Dominguez; Hilda Binongial; Rosanna (Anthony) Rosso; Daniella (Dr. Andrew) Lozano; uncles, Frank and Arthur Martinez; aunts, Socorro Landeros; Eloina (Willie) Navarrette; and many nephews, nieces and cousins. She is preceded in death by her loving mother, Alicia Theresa Gonzales; grandmother, Concepcion Martinez; aunt, Herminia Martinez; uncles, Raymond, Alfonso, Steve and Gilbert Martinez.
Ermelinda Garza was a dedicated wife, mother, sister and aunt. She was married to her husband of thirty eight years, Jorge L. Garza. She was eager to help others, especially her five children. Ermelinda had a very close relationship with each of her grandchildren. She spent much of her life with them either giving them individual attention or having sleepovers with them. Ermelinda’s granddaughters would compete for the best spot in her home, which always meant being next to her. She was equally energetic, patient and witty. Ermelinda also had special relationships with each of her nephews and nieces and by example, encouraged them, along with her own children and grandchildren, to follow Christ and live a good life. One niece recalled, “She pushed us to be strong, optimistic, and persistent, and taught us to follow Christ, not overtly, but through her own confidence and love.” Throughout her illness, Erma continued to serve others. She taught a children’s Sunday school class at Asamblea de Dios Urio del Valle in Gilroy. When she saw someone in need, she would always pray with them even when she was not feeling well. She was an excellent cook and enjoyed preparing food for church and family gatherings and for anyone who would stop by to visit.
Ermelinda, Erma, Tia Erma, Mom, Nana – you will be missed dearly by all who had the great fortune of having you in their lives.
Evening service Tues. 7pm, funeral service Wed. 10am both at Habing Family Funeral Home.
