SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 788

In Memory

of

Bertha Cuellar Gonzalez

WHEREAS, A full and generous life drew to a close with the passing of Bertha Cuellar Gonzalez of San Antonio on January 16, 2017, at the age of 99; and

WHEREAS, The daughter of Lino Edward Cuellar and Francisca Flores Cuellar, the former Bertha Cuellar was born in Floresville on November 21, 1917; she moved with her family to San Antonio as a young girl and went on to graduate from Brackenridge High School; and

WHEREAS, She married Henry B. Gonzalez in 1940, and the couple became the proud parents of four sons, Henry, Charles, Stephen, and Frank, and four daughters, Rose Mary, Bertha, Genevieve, and Anna; when her children were young, Mrs. Gonzalez was active in the PTA and served as a Cub Scout den mother; and

WHEREAS, While raising her family, Mrs. Gonzalez also shone as "campaigner in chief" for her husband, who became the state's first Mexican American congressman; she shared his deep commitment to social justice and played a crucial role in his long career in public service, providing wise counsel as well as tireless support; he often referred to her as his "secret weapon"; and

WHEREAS, Mrs. Gonzalez was happiest with a house full of people, especially youngsters, and she rejoiced in a large family that grew to include 21 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren; following the death of Congressman Gonzalez in November 2000, Mrs. Gonzalez demonstrated tremendous grace and resilience, and she continued to form many new friendships as a resident of a senior community; and

WHEREAS, Although she never sought the spotlight, Bertha Gonzalez made a lasting, positive difference in her community and beyond, and those who were fortunate enough to share in the richness of her life will forever cherish their memories of her warmth, her selfless dedication to her family, and her wonderful sense of humor; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 85th Legislature, hereby pay tribute to the memory of Bertha Cuellar Gonzalez and extend sincere condolences to all those who mourn her passing; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for her family and that when the Texas Senate adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Bertha Gonzalez. Menéndez, Campbell, Uresti, Zaffirini

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Member, Texas Senate Member, Texas Senate

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Member, Texas Senate Member, Texas Senate

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on May 15, 2017, by a rising vote.

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Secretary of the Senate