Mary Suzanne Vasquez

1932 - 2024

Mary Suzanne Vasquez

May 12, 1932 - October 8, 2024

RAPID CITY - Mary Suzanne Vasquez, 92, passed away on October 8, 2024, surrounded by her loving family in Rapid City, SD.

Mary was born in Arpan, SD, on May 12, 1932, to Emilio Gonzalez and Amada Adame. She grew up on a small farm in Arpan with her eight siblings, where she learned the values of a strong work ethic and unfailing commitment to family. She attended primary schooling in the Nisland area and high school in Belle Fourche. While in high school, she worked as a hospital candy striper.

She continued her education at the Newman University Nursing Program in Emporia, KS, and received her Nursing Degree in 1957.

Mary dedicated more than half of her life to the nursing profession, caring for countless patients with compassion and zest. She worked in hospitals throughout South Dakota, including hospitals in Belle Fourche, Sioux Falls, New Underwood, and Rapid City (St. Johns, Bennet-Clarkson, and Rapid City Regional Hospital). Patients appreciated her genuine bed-side manner and comprehensive care, while doctors and fellow nurses admired her no-nonsense work ethic and looked forward to her professional assertiveness and quick-witted banter.

Mary married Raul "Tony" Vasquez on February 11, 1961, in Belle Fourche, where they began their lives and family together. Mary and Tony had six children: Jess, Michelle (Dec. 1962–Jan. 1963), James (March 1964 -Nov. 2021), Jon, Jared, and Jenifer. Mary and Tony were married for nearly 60 years. During her life, Abuela (grandma) welcomed 17 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren into the world.

Mary was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend. Her greatest joy was her family. Mary loved spending time with her children, grandchildren, sisters, nieces, and nephews. Mary was unwavering in her efforts to support her kids, grandkids, and extended family at games, concerts, programs, and performances. She was happiest cooking and baking for family gatherings and celebrations. Mary's nurturing spirit gifted her with the ability to create family traditions that focused on making memories while serving those in need.

Mary left a remarkable legacy of service that is resolute within her family, as Mary and Tony's commitment to helping others has inspired generations. Their children and grandchildren carry their legacy through their dedication to positively impacting the community through various professions. They have chosen paths as teachers to nurture the next generation's minds; medical professionals providing compassionate medical care; working in public service sectors and in nonprofits, advocating for change and support for the underserved; and in the military serving our nation. This lineage of service reflects their values and belief in the importance of giving back, ensuring that their spirit of compassion and dedication continues to thrive for generations.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers William Gonzalez, Emil Gonzalez, and Larry Gonzalez; her sisters Evelyn Schumaker, Frances Lehto, Vera Carlson; daughter Michelle Vasquez and son James Vasquez.

Mary is deeply loved and survived by her sons: Jess (Susan) Vasquez, Jon (Chandra) Vasquez, Jared (Kelly) Vasquez; and her daughter, Jenifer (Thomas) Malott; her sisters Jessie Heidrich and Lupe Spears. She is also survived by 17 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

As in life, Mary's generosity continues into her death. Mary was accepted into the University of South Dakota School of Medicine's Advancement of Medicine Program, in which she is a proud body donor. Upon completion of her USD Med School Program, she will be laid to rest at Black Hills National Cemetery with her late husband, Tony.

A Remembrance Gathering for family and friends will be held in the future, date to be determined.