Catherine Ruth Gonzales, the oldest of 4 siblings born to Joe and Bernie Martinez on October 26, 1951 in Gilman, Co. Affectionately known as Cathy to all who loved her, leaves behind a beautiful legacy of laughter, music, and unwavering devotion to her family.
Cathy was the undisputed life of the party. Her absolute favorite moments were family get-togethers, where the room was always filled with good music and joy. She had a trademark move that her loved ones will never forget: whenever Cathy was getting ready to sing and dance, she would put her fingers up to her mouth and let out the loudest whistle. It was her signature way of letting everyone know the fun was truly about to begin.
Sometimes in the spring and summer months you could find Cathy sitting by the lake fishing with family or outside gardening. But mostly you could find her with her partner in crime and best friend Nancy causing trouble at Wal-Mart.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 55 years, Fred Gonzales; her son, Julian Gonzales; her father, Joe Martinez; and her brother, Rudy Martinez.
Cathy’s vibrant spirit lives on in the family she is survived by, including her mother, Bernice Martinez; her sister, Nancy (Ron) Martinez; and her brother, Raymond (Barbara) Martinez. She was a deeply loved mother to her 2 daughters: Kimberly (Sonny) Gamble, Cynthia (Clint) Scanga, and her daughter-in-law Delila Gonzales.
Her joy and love will continue to be felt by her grandchildren: Samantha, Ashly, Sabryna, Alexis, Aaron, Kristen, Julian, and Ciera; as well as her great-grandchildren: Haven, Brooklyn, Jillian, Arylah, Kaiya, Estrella, Chance, and Atlas. As well multiple aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Services will be held at The Living Waters Assembly of God Church 5300 US-50, Salida, CO 81201 April 4, 2026 @ 11 A.M. Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery
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