It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of Deidre Gonzales, age 73, who died on Nov. 18, 2020 in Lompoc after losing her battle with COVID-19.

Deidre (Dee) was born Feb 26, 1947 in Hollywood, California, to Addie and William (Bill) Delmar. She was the oldest of two children, including her sister Lisa Rinear.

After meeting the love of her life James J. Gonzales Sr., they had their first of two children, Katrina L. Gonzales. Shortly after, in 1983, they moved to Goleta, where Dee went on to have her last child and only son, James J. Gonzales Jr.

Deidre worked for the Goleta Union School District for more than 15 years in the food service department until she retired to spend time with her grandchildren and family. Dee also spent many years growing the family business G & G Building Maintenance.

You could often find Deidre baking pies in the kitchen or working on some sort of craft or sewing project. She was a talented seamstress and took great pride in sewing outfits for children in the family.

One of Dee’s favorite things to do was go camping with her family; Rancho Oso and Cachuma Lake were among her favorite camping destinations.

Dee was predeceased by her husband James J. Gonzales Sr., and her mother and father Addie and Bill Delmar. She is survived by her sister Lisa Rinear; her children Katrina (Luke), James (Martha) Gonzales; grandchildren Morgan, Roselee, Aryanna and Odie and many other family members.

A celebration of life will be held at a later time.

Gone from our sight, but never from our hearts, we will forever miss you.