In loving memory of Hermelinda Valles Gonzalez
November 10, 1924 – September 25, 2026
It is with deep love and heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of Hermelinda (Linda), a beloved daughter, sister, wife, cousin, mother, tia, suegra, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great grandmother and friend.
Linda was a spunky, witty little lady who lived life to the fullest. For all her 101 years-just shy of 102- she remained quick-witted, independent, spirited and full of life. Age never took away the spark that made her uniquely her. She had a personality all her own, a sharp sense of humor, and a way of making people laugh with her perfectly timed comments and playful spirit.
She loved to travel, celebrate (party), enjoy sweet treats, cook for the people she loved, and create memories. She knew how to enjoy the good things in life and believed that the best moments were those spent surrounded by the people she loved.
It should also be recognized that this little lady was no ordinary grandma-she was a Glamma.
There wasn’t a day when Linda didn’t make sure, she looked her best. Her hair was done, her nails were sparkling, her lips were red, and she was ready to face the world with style. She carried herself with confidence, grace, and just the right amount of sass. Her sparkle wasn’t just something you saw – it was something you felt.
Her family was her greatest treasure. She cherished being a mother to her three beautiful girls and took immense pride in watching her family grow through the generations. She was a loving grandmother, a cherished great-grandmother, and a proud great-great-grandmother. Each generation held a special place in her heart (despite the controversy over who is the favorite grandchild), and she created memories that will continue to be shared for generations to come.
She had a special way of showing her love through a home-cooked meal, a sweet treat, a celebration, a trip, a funny remark (no filter), or simply bringing everyone together. Her stories, her laughter, her recipes, and even her little quirks became the fabric of her family.
Above all, Linda was a woman of faith. She loved God and placed her trust in Him no matter what life brought her way. Through every season of her remarkable life, her faith remained a source of strength and comfort.
After 101 years full of life, love, laughter, adventures, celebrations and memories, she leaves behind a legacy that is bigger than the number of years she lived. She leaves behind the people she loves, the generations she helped shape, and countless stories that will continue to be told. She may have been a little lady, but she had a personality and love for others that left a big mark on the hearts of those who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Pedro Valles and Guadalupe Serrato Valles; Her cherished husband, Ramon Gonzalez; Her dear little brother, Arturo Valles; and her beloved daughter, Daena Gonzalez Ayala.
She leaves behind her daughters Ofilia Gonzalez Moreno, Sylvia Gonzalez Kuypers, and her sons-in-law Alejandro Moreno and Edward Kuypers. Her grandchildren Lena Ayala Martinez (Matthew Martinez), Deanna Ayala Friend (Jim Friend), Mark Ayala (Miranda Ayala), Nina Torres, Erica Tripodi (Vinny Tripodi), Melinda Moreno and future grandson Andrew Garcia. Her legacy continues with 14 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild, along with countless extended family members and friends who were blessed to share in her remarkable life who will continue to carry her love forward.
Until we meet again, mommy, suegra, little lady, grandma, gramma, ma’am, Tita, Tia, Linda. Your love, your laughter, your zest for life, your faith, your wit, and your sparkle will live on forever.
Visitation Thursday, October 1, 2026, from 2 to 8 p.m. at Elmwood Chapel 11200 S. Ewing Ave., Chicago. Closing Prayers Friday, October 2, 2026, from Elmwood Chapel at 9:15 a.m. and processing to Our Lady of Guadalupe Church 3200 E. 91st Street, Chicago, for Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. Interment to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, Calumet City, IL. For funeral info call 773-731-2749.
Closing Prayers at Elmwood Chapel
Friday, October 2, 2026 - 9:15 am
Funeral Mass:
Our Lady of Guadalupe Church
3200 East 91st Street
Chicago, Illinois 60617
Friday, October 2, 2026 - 10:00 am
Interment:
Holy Cross Cemetery
801 Michigan City Road
Calumet City, Illinois 60409
East Side
11200 S. Ewing Ave
Chicago, IL 60617
(773) 731-2749
Thursday, October 1, 2026 - 2:00 pm until 8:00 pm