Lupe C. Mascareñas

Lupe C. Mascareñas, affectionately known as "Pita," or sometimes, "Marilyn," entered into eternal rest on January 17, 2025, in Litchfield Park, Arizona, at the age of 73. She was born on December 13, 1951, in Stockton, California, to Ernesto and Rose Contreras, she was the second of six children in a close-knit family that celebrated creativity and community.



While attending Luther Burbank Elementary School, Lupe showcased her talent as a Majorette Baton Twirler, captivating audiences during parades and exhibitions. Her love for performance extended to the stage, where she played the "witch" in a school production of Hansel and Gretel. In 1963, her family moved to Avondale, Arizona. There, she continued her education at Avondale Elementary School and Agua Fria High School, forming lifelong friendships.



In 1971, Lupe married Rene Mascareñas in a beautiful Catholic ceremony at St. John Vianney Catholic Church. Together they built a home filled with love, laughter and chaos while they raised five children. As a devoted and vigilant stay-at-home mother for many years, Lupe created an inclusive environment that welcomed everyone from neighborhood children to religious missionaries.



Later in life, she worked as a pharmacy technician at Albertsons, making lasting connections with colleagues and customers until her retirement. Lupe's playful and adventurous spirit brought joy to her grandchildren through cherished sleepovers filled with storytelling and fun. She also enjoyed exploring new restaurants and shopping for trinkets with her brother Jack. Lupe had the unique ability to make everyone feel special and left an indelible impression on all who knew her. Her memory will be etched in our hearts forever.



She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Rene Mascareñas; daughters, Monica Rose Rodriguez (Rene), Marina Aguirre (Tony), Marisa Monreal (Robert); sons, Rene Mascareñas Jr. and Christopher Mascareñas; sister, Marina Salazar (Paul Romero); brothers, Joaquin "Jack" Contreras and Chris Contreras (Janie); ten grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; extended family members; numerous friends and her beloved cats, Vincent Vega and Mia Wallace. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ernesto and Rose Contreras, and brothers, Ernest "Chino" Contreras and Eugene Contreras. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 15, 2025, 10:00 am at Holy Cross Catholic Funeral Home, 9925 W. Thomas Rd., Avondale, AZ 85392. A reception will follow at 1:00 pm, La Mision Jubilee Center, 11147 W. Buckeye Rd., Avondale, AZ 85323.