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GONZALES -- Cecilia Rael Gonzales, 88, was born into earthly life on July 17, 1922 and reborn into eternal life on July 29, 2010. She passed away peacefully at home, in her daughter Frances' arms after a brief illness. Cecilia's devoted children, Ramon and Patricia were at her side. Mrs. Gonzales was a loving and beloved daughter, sister, cousin, wife, mother and friend. Cecilia is survived by her children; and her sons-in-law, Robert J. Vanderkrabben and Ross K. Henke; In addition, she is survived by her sister, Kathryn R. Garcia; brothers, Justin Rael and his wife, Irene Rose, and Ed Rael, and his wife, Pauline; numerous nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Ramon B. Gonzales; parents, Lecadio and Albinita Page Rael; and her most beloved sister, Margaret Rael Martinez. Cecilia was born in Puerto de Luna, New Mexico and grew up in Martineztown. She attended Albuquerque High School and graduated from the University of Albuquerque (College of St.Joseph's) with a Bachelor of Science in Education. A master educator for 39 years, she served as an elementary school teacher at Alameda and Griegos Elementary Schools in Albuquerque. Prior to joining APS, Cecilia began her teaching career alongside her mother, Albinita Page Rael at San Antonito school. During her retirement years, Cecilia enjoyed traveling with her children to see the beauty of her country. She took the opportunity to enjoy extended visits with her daughters in San Francisco and Chicago. Mrs. Gonzales was a member of the Kappa Kappa Iota, Beta State, Eta conclave honorary Teachers Sorority. She was an active member of Queen of Heaven Catholic Church where she served on the School Board for many years. She was a volunteer aide at the Veteran's Hospital and donated generously to the Albuquerque Battered Women's Shelter and the St. Vincent De Paul Society. Mrs. Gonzales will be remembered at a Rosary at 7 P.M. Tuesday, August 3rd, at French Mortuary, 1111 University Blvd.N.E. Visitation begins at 6 P.M. A Mass of Catholic Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 4th at 10:00 A.M. in the Chapel at French Mortuary, with internment to follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, 1900 Edith Blvd. N.W. Pallbearers will be: Frances Gonzales, Ramon Gonzales, Robert Vanderkrabben, Ross Henke, Greg Rael, Albert Martinez, Gerard Garcia and Ryan Garcia. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that donations be made to The Association of the Miraculous Medal, 1811 West St. Joseph Street, Perryville, Missouri, 63775-1598, or The Queen of Heaven Catholic "School Fund", 5303 Phoenix Ave. Albuquerque, New Mexico 87110, or S.A.F.E. House, P.O. Box 25363, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87125. Cecilia's family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Mrs. Petra Melendez for her loving care and friendship. Frances, Patricia and Ramon wish to thank Dr.Jan Goldthwait of ABQ Health Partners; Dr. Marge Vining, Father Charles Dougherty, Fabian, Janice, Dawn, Charlie, Helen and Regina of Presbyterian Healthcare Services Hospice; Dr Robert J. Weiler, Claire, Roberta Valdez and the staff at the University of New Mexico Cancer Center; and Home Instead Senior Care for their Mother's expert and compassionate care. Please visit our online guestbook for Cecilia at: www.RememberTheirStory.com. French 1111 University Blvd. NE. (505) 843-6333
        Published on: Sun August 01, 2010