Gloria Mendoza

Gloria Mendoza, 58 of Zion, IL, passed away unexpectedly on July 13th. Gloria was born in El Salvador to Lucio & Rosa Mendoza, but Illinois had been her home since 1986. 

Gloria worked for many years at Deluxe. Her passion in life was creating a welcoming home for loved ones. She found great joy in hosting family, making incredible family meals, and was known for her elaborate Christmas decor. Nothing made Gloria smile more than having her children together in one room. She enjoyed spending time with her furry companions, working on her garden, and relaxing at the beach. Gloria exemplified strength during the most challenging times, one of the most being when two of her sons served overseas. 

Gloria is survived by her sons, Juan (Helena) Cortez, Gonzalo Javier (Heather) Cortez, Alvaro Cortez; her daughter Esmeralda Guerra; her step children, Abraham and Jocelyn Guerra; her grandsons, Carlos, Colton, Mateo, and Joel Cortez; many siblings including Maria Mendoza; long time friends, Laura Zalloni, Adriana Zalloni, and Milena McCauley. She is also survived by former spouses Rupert Guerra, and Gonzalo Cortez and his family-Sandra, Yasmin, Marcela, and Edwin Cortez. 

She is preceded in death by her granddaughter Arianna Cortez and family friend, Judy DeSerio. 

Visitation will be held at Congdon Funeral home, 3012 Sheridan road, Zion, IL 60099, from 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm on Sunday, July 21, 2024. Followed by funeral service at 7:00 pm.