Dorothy V. Gonzales

Age 68, of East Lansing, died Wednesday, May 9, 2012 at 8:15 a.m. after several years of illness and declining health. Dorothy was born July 19, 1943 to parents Jesse M. Gonzales and Susie V. Gonzales both of whom are now deceased.

Dorothy retired from the Michigan Dept. of Mental Health having served as Director of Multi-Cultural Services.  Dorothy was also elected to the MSU Board of Trustees for 2 terms totaling 16 years of service.

Dorothy was a devoted and loving mother to sons Todd A. Torres and Mark A. Torres. She is survived by her sons; brothers, Richard Gonzales and wife Pamela, Chicago, IL, George Gonzales and wife Roxanne, Corpus Christie, TX; sisters, Jill A. Niera, San Antonio, TX, Ella Yiannatji, Grand Blanc, Michigan; and by uncles, aunts, cousins and extended family throughout the U.S.

The family will receive friends and relatives from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Friday, May 11, 2012 and 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Saturday, May 12, 2012, at the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel. There will be no service. Memorial contributions may be made to the TOCE/L.U.P.E. Scholarship Endowment, University Advancement, Michigan State University, 300 Spartan Way, East Lansing, MI 48824. https://www.givingto.msu.edu/gift/?SID=237

Print Obituary

8 Messages to “Dorothy V. Gonzales

Print Messages
Elvira Martinez-Jones
May 10, 2012 at 8:24 am

La familia de la Sra. Gonzales, les acompaño en sus sientimentos. Su mama, hermana, tia, era una linda persona que siempre tenia una sonrisa para todos. Dorothy tenia un gran corazón. A todos le importaba ye siempre luchaba por los estudiantes y nuestra jente. Emos perdido una gran mujer.

Reply
Yolanda Mobley
May 10, 2012 at 1:23 pm

To the family of Dorothy . Your mother was a Beautiful and Smart woman. Strived to be educated and a learned scholar. This to me is one of my fond memories of your mother. She achieved above the average person. Know that she did this as a good example of a role model for all. I know you will miss her! Remember her as Loving and Highly Educated. No shrinking Violet here! I will miss her Dearly and my prayers to you boys.

Reply
Linda Hernandez-Dennis
May 10, 2012 at 7:46 pm

Dorothy, happened to be my aunt, but, was more like a big sister to me. Good friend growing up. She cared and I will miss her gorgeous smile and her happy laugh. Those memories will be treasured always. We are so proud of her accomplishments. Highest on that list are you two boys. Mark and Todd I am so sorry for your loss.

Reply
Larry C. Arreguin
May 11, 2012 at 3:47 pm

My deepest and sincere condolences go out to the Family of the Hon. Dorothy V. Gonzales.

Dorothy was a very humbling person and true Champion for Hispanics here in Michigan and across this country. A Trailblazer, that promoted diversity and inclusion in higher education, social work and politics. She will be missed.

Reply
Jennifer Ramsey Wallace
May 11, 2012 at 7:01 pm

Todd,

You and your family have our deepest condolences on the lost of your mother.

She was a remarkable woman and we shared some really great times together. She was a hoot when we were at the Democratic Conventions!

Drew’s Mom.

Reply
K.P. Pelleran
May 12, 2012 at 6:06 pm

My condolences are extended to Dorothy’s family. I first met Dorothy more than 30 years ago through the Democratic network and my work as U.S. Senator Carl Levin’s Capital regional representative. Dorothy was a tremendous advocate for equality and equity. I admired her work and commitment. She was always a beacon of light in the often turbulent political sea that lacked female role-models. I will remember Dorothy as a kindred spirit who made a difference in the lives of so many others. My thoughts and prayers are extended to her family.

Reply
Margaret A Perez cousin from San Antonio Tx.
May 13, 2012 at 7:29 pm

Dorothy you will be missed dearly. Dorothy was named after my mom. Dorothy and I grew up together, she never forgot where her roots were here is San Antonio Tx.
The Lord bless you and keep you! The Lord let his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you! The Lord look upon you kindly and give you peace ! Numbers 6:24-26

Reply
Elaine Perez-Garnett
May 19, 2012 at 10:09 am

Our condolences go out to Dorothy’s family. Dorothy you will be missed a great deal and know that you are with the Lord now and no longer suffering. May God keep you and finally give you rest for one day we shall meet again and be together again. (your cousin & her husband John).

Reply

Please Sign The Guestbook

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *