Mary Cantu Arambula

1928 - 2021

MARY CANTU ARAMBULA

August 7, 1928 - December 22, 2021

It is with immense sorrow that we announce the passing of Mary Arambula. She was a bright light in this world, deeply loved, and will be missed by those who were lucky enough to have known her.

Mary Minerva Cantu was born in Texas on August 7, 1928, where she spent her early years before her family relocated to California in 1940. While working in the potato fields in 1944, Mary met her soulmate, Richard Arambula, who would become her partner in life for nearly 77 years. Mary and Richard stuck together through thick and thin and created a loving family comprised of five children, thirteen grandchildren, eighteen great-grandchildren and sixteen great-great-grandchildren.

Mary was one of a kind. She had the most tender heart and generous spirit, never turning away a person in need. She was quick to help and always ensured that we were well-fed on her famous tamales, chile and menudo, before sending us on our way.

Acutely perceptive and smart, Mary was sharp as a tack. Her keen memory provided us with legendary stories that would either have us howling with laughter or trembling in fear.

Joyful and warm, Mary loved dancing, antique shopping and, especially, gambling. She was a true blue Dodgers fan who planned her days around their games, which she enjoyed with a cold beer. Mary's joys in life were spending time with her family, cooking, caring for her plants, eating at El Charro and indulging in Smith's banana nut cake and See's Candies.

Mary Arambula was a wonderful soul, who blessed our lives in countless ways. She was our gema and we will love and miss her forever.

She is survived by her husband Richard Arambula, daughter Rose Gonzales (Emilio), sister Christina Rodriquez (Raul), her entire family, and everyone who loved her. She was preceded in death by her parents, Manuel and Jacoba Cantu; children Richard Jr., Patt (Edwards), Edward Ralph and Rachel (Colfax), as well as eight siblings.

The family would like to thank the staff of Bristol Hospice, especially Cassandra, Nina and Maria, as well as Mary's caregivers, Terri and Luce.

Beginning at 9 a.m. on January 13, a viewing will take place at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, followed by the Rosary and Mass of Christian Burial. A graveside service will be held afterward at Greenlawn Northeast at 3700 River Blvd.

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