OBITUARY: Mary Louise Vazquez

Mary Louise Vazquez was born in Shafter on July 7, 1927, to parents Pastor Vazquez and Maria Torres Vazquez. She spent her whole life in Shafter and was one of the eldest residents in the Mexican Colony.

Mary Louise enjoyed traveling with her sister, Helen, and they eventually lived together in their senior years. Mary Louise was known by many as "Licha."

Licha loved gardening and would often cultivate and arrange floral arrangements for St. Therese Catholic Church. Aside from being a skilled gardener, Licha was also a master cook and chef. She was well known for her stews that she shared with family and friends.

Licha was a maternal person who cared for her family and made sure they were taken care of every time any of them came to visit. She was a strong woman who did not let any illness slow her down. She passed away peacefully on Dec. 3, 2019. She was 92 years old.

Mary Louise is survived by her beloved sister, Helen Vazquez, and her many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews, all of whom held a special place in her heart, including Stephan Carrillo, Anthony Jr. Vazquez, Nicole Vazquez and Michael Rovelli.

A viewing will be held Monday, Dec. 9, from 2 to 8 p.m., with the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 5 p.m., at Peters Funeral Home in Shafter. A funeral mass will be held Tuesday, Dec. 10 at 10 a.m. at St. Therese Catholic Church.