Rebecca Camarena Sanchez

Rebecca Camarena Sanchez, loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, and cherished friend, peacefully passed away at the age of 92 on November 9, 2023. Rebecca was born on February 27, 1931, in San Antonio, Texas, to Rudolfo and Natalia Camarena. She later moved to Michigan with her brothers and it was there that she met, fell in love with, and would eventually marry her true love, Ricardo Sanchez. Over the course of 41 wonderful years, Rebecca and Ricardo built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories, while raising a beautiful family of 15 children, whom they adored.

Rebecca, along with Ricardo, instilled many values into the lives of their children, among them faith, love of family and community. The warmth of her love and the strength of her convictions left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew her. She was a true matriarch of her family, sharing her wisdom and guidance not only with her children but their friends as well.

Rebecca had a passion for life and an adventurous spirit. She loved family gatherings, celebrations, dancing with Ricardo or her sons, fondness for casinos, and any event where music, laughter and friends surrounded her. Her fondness for giving back was evident by her volunteerism, whether with the Salvation Army, providing meals, babysitting for others, or any opportunity where she was able to pour of herself into the lives of others.

Rebecca's legendary culinary skills were another great source of joy and pride for her. Her homemade tamales, fresh flour tortillas, salsa, and delicious burritos were always welcomed by all who had the pleasure of tasting them. In fact, her food was loved so much that she began selling to a select few, wearing a great big smile as she saw how much enjoyment others received as they ate her cooking.

Rebecca's life was a testament to the power of love, family, and faith. Her legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, who will forever carry her memory in their hearts. She will be greatly missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Loving mother of Mary Reta, Richard (Elaine) Sanchez, Paul Sanchez (Beth Quinn), Concepcion (William) Hilla, Mario (Gayle) Sanchez, Peter (Kristin) Sanchez, Rita Turner, Al (Sheila) Sanchez, Lucy (Shannon) Kalil, Santa Cutter, Sam (Annette) Sanchez, Lydia (Gary Oakes) Sanchez, Christopher (Genie) Sanchez, and David Sanchez; beloved grandmother of 24, great-grandmother of 23, and great-great-grandmother of 2; loving sister of Gilbert Camarena and Grace Guerra. Many loving nieces, nephews, family, and friends also survive Rebecca.

Rebecca is preceded in passing by her beloved husband Ricardo Sanchez, son Joseph, siblings Henry, Gus, and Olivia, and her parents Rudolfo and Natalia.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 15, from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, November 16 at St. Peter Catholic Church in Mount Clemens, Instate (gathering time) at 11:00 am, Mass at 11:30 am, with a procession to Resurrection Cemetery following, where committal prayers and burial will take place.

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