Victoria C. Alvarez

1932 - 2023

Victoria C. Alvarez
March 6, 1932 - April 30, 2023
Sacramento, California - Several years ago, Victoria saved a copy of a poem called "The Dash". The Dash refers to the time between birth and death. It serves as a symbol of one's life and how they lived out the years between the two significant dates. The poem reminds us to, "Love the people in our lives like we've never loved before...remember that this special dash might only last a little while...be proud of how you spend your dash."
Victoria lived a long and meaningful life and touched many lives during her dash.
She was born to Anselmo and Ramona Corona in a part of Sacramento known as Gardenland. She grew up in a large family, with eight other siblings, who mainly worked in agriculture and canneries. As a young girl, she was an avid reader. Victoria attended Grant Union High School. Soon after high school she began working at Libby's Cannery, where she met Jose Alvarez. She and Jose married in 1952 and had eight children together. In 1971, Victoria became the single and primary source of support for her children. She was a hard worker and supported her family by working at Campbell Soup. She worked there until her retirement in 1997 and received a perfect attendance award for all her years with Campbell Soup.
Preceded by her death were two sons, baby Joey and Manuel. Her other children are Michael (Linda), Joseph (Johanna), Anthony (Yolanda), Victor, Laura (Chris), and Linda (Russell). She also has 11 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren and is survived by sisters Vera, Ramona, Eloise. Her greatest joys were the many family gatherings she hosted and attended throughout the years. She was incredibly proud, and wholeheartedly loved all her children and their families. She devoted her life to providing opportunities for all to grow and succeed. Victoria was always there supporting her family through their many accomplishments and milestones. And when asked by one of her granddaughters, "What is your advice to me?" Victoria responded, "Stay in school, get an education...and always love your parents."
Victoria was also an excellent cook, many of her family favorites included homemade tortillas (early years), arroz con leche, tamales, three layer jello, special oatmeal cookies, and countless other dishes. She was extremely organized, independent, and enjoyed working on her large yard past her 91st birthday. She enjoyed traveling with her children throughout her entire life, including many visits to other states and cities.
And despite challenges and heartaches throughout her life, Victoria showed her family how to be strong, resilient, and persevere. When she wasn't in her backyard gardening, you could find her in her dining room having coffee and visiting with her children and grandchildren, watching her novelas, or making something special for an upcoming family gathering. While she will be greatly missed, her goodness, kindness, caring, and wisdom will live on in a legacy of love that will always be with us.
The funeral will be held on Thursday May 18 at 1:00pm at St. Marys Cemetery 6509 Fruitridge Road, Sacramento.