Antonia Munoz Gallardo

If only I had wings like a dove that I might fly away and find rest. Far away I would flee; I would stay in the desert. I would soon find a shelter from the raging wind and storm. (Psalms, Ch. 55)

We live our lives craving to be seen and appreciated for who we uniquely are, and when our lives end, an unfillable space is left behind. Antonia's own way of appreciating, creating and sharing beauty, even in ugly circumstances, will never be replicated. With her impeccable sense of style, movie star looks and gracious manners, she was a true lady.

After a childhood spent traveling between the US and Mexico, Antonia settled permanently in Indio, CA to marry Macario Gallardo in 1945. She became a devoted mother, raising five children-Samuel, Gloria, Sandra, Mary Ann and Gina. Because of Antonia, their home was often full of friends, family and glorious food. Her life was marked by the tragic death of her youngest daughter Gina at age 19 due to a drunk driver, and the death of her husband Macario in 1998 due to heart disease.

Lovingly cared for in her later years by her daughters Sandra Gallardo Calderon and Mary Ann Gallardo Garcia, and son in law Joe Garcia, our extended family would like to acknowledge Antonia's healthcare team for the wonderful care she received, particularly Michelle and Juliet of Cozy Healthcare hospice services, Maria from CNS, and Charlotte and Arlitta from the Senior Companion Program of Salt Lake County, along with the support of many generous friends in Utah and California. Antonia's slow decline from dementia has deepened our understanding of suffering, but thanks to their example, it has also deepened our understanding of compassion.

One of 21 children born to Cirilio and Maria Gutierrez Munoz, Antonia was a loyal sister. She is survived by six of her siblings: Rebeca, Carmen, Luis, Ramon, Raul and Elia. In addition to her 4 oldest children, she is also survived by her 13 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great grandchildren, in-laws and many valued nieces, nephews and friends. As her survivors, we will strive to fill the empty space she has left behind by expecting the best of ourselves, working hard, and reflecting well on our family.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, April 30, 2014 at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 2864 South 9000 West, Magna. Vigil will be held from 4:00 to 6:00 PM, with a Rosary beginning at 6:00 PM. Mass will be celebrated at 7:00 PM. Interment will be held at a later date in Indio, California.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you contribute to the Our Lady of Lourdes Building Fund, or to a memory care organization of your choice.