Mary Helen Loya-Gonzalez

Mary Helen Loya-Gonzalez
January 13, 1971- October 28, 2016
Mary Helen Loya-Gonzalez, age 45, passed away while surrounded by her family on October 28, 2016.
Mary was born in Loma Linda, California, to Robert and Brijette Loya, as the middle child between Robert and Eddie.
In her early 20’s, Mary worked at Beaver Medical Group in Redlands, where she found her calling for helping others in the healthcare field.
Mary began her studies at San Bernardino Valley College earning her nursing degree as an RN in 1999.   Her love for learning lead her to continue her education, receiving her Bachelors of Science (B.S.) in nursing in 2002 and her Masters of Science (M.S) in nursing in 2005 from the University of Phoenix. 
Mary worked as an Emergency Department nurse in local hospitals, including the VA hospital in Loma Linda as an Emergency Department nurse and continued there as a nurse manager.
A natural born teacher, Mary returned to her alma mater, San Bernardino Valley College, teaching 4th level medical-surgical classes as well as supervising nursing students at local hospitals.
Another of Mary’s loves was the love of exercise and healthy living. She participated in numerous triathalons, 5ks and ½ marathons, earning more than 30 medals.
Mary’s faith and her love for others was evident in all that she did, putting others before herself, expecting nothing in return. She was known for her smile and gentle spirit, for her quick wit and her love for animals.  The stray cats in the neighborhood knew where to go for food and love. Mary’s light will continue to shine brightly in all of those that she touched over the years and she will be deeply missed by all.
She is predeceased by her grandfather, Robert Loya. She is survived by her beloved husband of 25 years, Miguel Gonzalez, her parents Robert and Brijette Loya, her siblings Robert and Eddie, her nieces and nephew, Donna, Brooke, Alexis, and Gabe, and her kitties Nee-nees, Babacita, and baby kitty (Chuco).
A viewing will be held on Monday November the 7th, 2016 from 4-8 pm at Emmerson-Bartlett Memorial Chapel, 703 Brookside Avenue, Redlands 92373.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday November the 8th, 2016 at 10:00am at Emmerson-Bartlett Memorial Chapel, 703 Brookside Avenue, Redlands 92373. 
The interment will follow at Hillside Memorial Park, 1540 Alessandro Road, Redlands 92373.