Rosie Gonzales

Rosa Gonzales, known affectionately as "Aunt Rosie" or "Ya-Ya" to her loved ones,
died on Thursday, February 17th at Overland Park Regional Hospital at the age of 69.
After an admirable battle with both breast and gastric cancer, as well as subsequent
surgeries and complications, Rosie's gentle soul gained freedom as she was
encircled by some of the family members she so adored.

Born to Tomas and Paula Gonzales on July 15, 1952, in Widener, Arkansas, Rosie grew
up with 3 brothers and 3 sisters. An intellectual disability placed her in the
permanent care of these siblings but also gave her a childlike innocence which
made her an absolute joy to be around. She was also maternal by nature and helped
nurture numerous nieces and nephews (and later, great nieces and great nephews)
who cherished her in turn. In 2005, Rosie came to live with one of these nieces,
Victoria Cantu, and Victoria's family in Olathe, Kansas. Here, she continued the quiet
life that so contented her, enjoying pastimes such as: coloring, putting together
puzzles, shopping for makeup and clothes, eating at restaurants, adding to her
photo and stuffed animal collection, and keeping up a steady correspondence with
other family members.

Rosie was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Raymond and Lupe Gonzales;
and her sisters Mary and Juanita. She is survived by her sister Emma, brother Joe,
and countless nieces and nephews who will remember her most for her pure spirit,
steadfast smile, and boundless capacity for love. She will be missed beyond measure,
and her memory will be proudly treasured by those she leaves behind.

Funeral services for Rosie have been arranged by Penwell-Gabel Funeral Home. They
will be held on Friday, February 25th at St. Paul Catholic Church and will include a
10:00am Visitation, 11:00am Mass, and Graveside service to follow at Resurrection
Catholic Cemetery.

To leave a message of condolence for Rosie's family or to share a special memory of Rosie, visit the guestbook below.