Maria R. Bernal, age 78, passed away on May 11th, 2021 in the comfort of her home in Chicago, Illinois. Maria was born in San Francisco Del Rincon, Guanajuato, Mexico on July 31, 1942 to parents Praxedis Ramirez & Marciana Gomez. As the youngest of seven siblings, during her teenage years, Maria moved with her family to Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico where her parents practiced as Midwives and where she later met the love of her life, Leonel (Leo) Bernal.
Living in Texas and California for a duration of her life, Maria and Leo both worked very hard to raise their family. In November 1969, Maria moved to Chicago, settling down and planting her roots in Pilsen in what became her forever home and the family continued to grow.
Maria is preceded in death by husband, Leonel Bernal, and is survived by sons- Martin (Laura), Leonel Jr., Jimmie; daughters- Mary (Victor), Nora (Kico), Letisia (Andrzej), Brenda (Arthur), 21 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren.
Maria was a strong woman who was not afraid to speak up for what she believed in. She was a wonderful wife, loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother who will truly be missed and forever hold a special place in our hearts as the matriarch of our family. Reuniting with her love once again in heaven. She will be greatly missed.
Private Funeral Mass will be held Tuesday, May 18, 2021at St. Pius V. Church, 1900 S. Ashland Ave., Chicago, IL 60608.
Following State of Illinois COVID-19 guidelines, only 100 people, (including school age children) are permitted in the Chapel at all times; this does not include funeral home personnel or clergy/celebrant/s).
“We kindly ask to keep your visit short and brief to allow other guests to pay their respects and to minimize those people that are waiting to also pay their respects. Face masks, use of hand sanitizer and social distancing are required. It is advised that No one should come to the wake service or burial if they are sick or are caring for someone sick at home.
All attending wake services must register with funeral home personnel upon entering church. **Please be respectful of the wishes of the family. Please follow social distancing guidelines & wear your face mask at all times. As much as the family would love to receive your hugs it’s important to provide safety for all. Funeral Associates will be directing those paying respects upon entering the church.
