Theresa Wally Goncalves

Surrounded by her loving family Theresa Wally (Woelk) Goncalves 85, passes away on October 12th from a short battle with cancer. She was born in Corupa, Brazil, a community settled by German immigrants. When she was 18 she went to live in Sao Paulo Brazil where she met her future husband, Joaquin (Jack) Goncalves. They were married in 1952 and their daughter was born a few years later.
In 1957 they immigrated to California living first in Visalia then Artesia. In 1966 they settled in Galt where Jack was in the dairy business. Theresa was his partner in every way. She raised the baby calves and did the bookkeeping for the business. After selling the dairy, she helped manage their rental properties.
Theresa was a meticulous and fabulous cook to the delight of family and friends. She was also an avid gardener with beautiful roses. She had a generous spirit helping those who she saw in need however she could.
Theresa and Jack were married for 56 years. He died in 2008. For the last seven years of his life, Theresa was his attentive and faithful caregiver.
Theresa is survived by her only child, Solange, son-in-law Steve and grandchildren Nicholas and Tatiana Altman and six siblings in Brazil.
There will be a rosary at St. Christopher's Catholic Church in Galt on Monday, October 19 at 11:00 a.m. followed by a Mass at 11:30 am.
Visitation will be at Galt Funeral Chapel on Sunday October 18 from 4:30 pm to 8:00 pm.