Madam Speaker, I stand here today to honor a loving mother, supportive wife, adoring grandmother and doting great-grandmother, Hortensia ``Guera'' Abril.Born in Nuevo Leon, Monterey, Mexico, she eventually moved to Colton, California where she grew up to become a longstanding, influential member of the community. A fulfilled homemaker thanks to her care, compassion and love for her family, Guera also proudly belonged to Colton's San Salvador Catholic Church. In addition to supporting her husband, Ray ``Sonny'' Abril, who served on the Colton School Board for many years, she too played an active role in the community as a longtime PTA member, well-respected and loved by all.In addition to being survived by her husband Sonny of 53 years, her memory will be carried on by her three sons, Nick, Michael (Stella) and Dominic; her three daughters, Melinda Medina (Mike), Becky Gonzales (Reuben) and Nellie Carners (Joe); and one brother, Norberto Gasca. Guera will be sorely missed by 19 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and friends as well.As a longtime friend of Ray's, I would like to express my greatest sympathies for his family's loss. She meant everything in the world to him and will truly be missed. Let us take a moment to remember this great woman and her admirable dedication to instilling positive change and leading an exemplarily life, one whose footsteps we all hope to follow. The thoughts and prayers of my wife Barbara, my family and I are with his family at this time.
God Bless Hortensia ``Guera'' Abril for love of country and mankind.
Representative Joe Baca

http://capitolwords.org/date/2008/10/03/E2234-3_tribute-to-hortensia-guera-abril/

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HORTENSIA "GUERA" ABRIL Age 74, a lifelong resident of Colton, passed away on Sept. 29, 2008, at her home, with family by her side. She is survived by her husband, Ray "Sonny" of 53 years; her three sons, Nick, Michael (Stella) and Dominic; and three daughters, Melinda Medina (Mike), Becky Gonzales (Reuben) and Nellie Carners (Joe); and one brother, Norberto Gasca. She leaves behind 19 Grandchildren; 16 Great Grandchildren; and many nieces, ne phews and friends. Viewing will be held on Oct. 6, 2008, at 10:00 A.M. with Mass at 11:00 A.M. at San Salvador Catholic Church. Burial will follow at Hermosa Gardens Cemetery, Colton, CA. Inland Memorial (909) 254-4100.

Published in San Bernardino Sun on Oct. 3, 2008