Stephanie G Gonzales "Spanish"

Stephanie “Spanish” Gonzales of Minneapolis was born in San Antonio, Texas and moved to Minnesota with her family, as a young girl. Spanish will be deeply missed by parents: Mary Candy Peterson and Steve (Laura) Gonzales; Siblings: Eugene (Michelle) Gonzales, Candace (Patrick) Mealey; Stepdad Mark Peterson; Aunt’s: Margarita Garcia, Lillian Martinez, Pamela Chock, and Cindy Garcia; Uncles: Ricardo Garcia and Daryl Chock; Cousins: Lorraine Martinez, Christina Garcia, Tim (Jenny) Kreuser-Peterson, and Heather (Aaron) Olson; Nieces: Yasmin Gonzales, Isabella Gonzales, and Nola Mealey; and Nephews: Vaughn and Harlan Mealey; and many more family and friends.

She is reunited with Grandparents: Alfonso and Anita Garcia, Tilly, and Dave and Jill Peterson; Uncle Al Garcia Jr.; and her best friend and partner in crime Peabody.

Spanish was the middle child of three children. She grew up in Coon Rapids, Minnesota and graduated from Blaine High School. Spanish enjoyed high school, spending her days singing in choir, playing Viola and Upright Bass, and was involved in various theater performances. After high school, she went to Minnesota State University Moorhead. 

Spanish was a wildly creative soul with a passion for helping others. Her passion led to many admirable journeys throughout her life. Whether she was being a Life Coach for She Rock She Rock, presenting her bike expertise to the Girl Scouts of America, or being trained on how to respond to opioid overdose; she worked countlessly and selflessly to serve those in need.

At Spanish’s highest peak, cycling was a daily adventure. In the cycling community, she was known as a speed demon, winning several bike races and accolades. If she wasn’t on her bike, she was getting geared up for the next gravel race, souping up her bikes, organizing rides and races or teaching others how to fix their bikes. Cycling was a way of life.

Spanish had an impeccable wit, with a snarkiness that was both lovable and unmatchable. From her beautiful smile that could light up a room to her colorful DIY hair and creative fashion sense, her presence was always known. Spanish will be immensely missed.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to She Rock She Rock, in her memory. She Rock She Rock is a Minnesota nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering girls, women, trans and nonbinary folks through the art of music.

And always remember “Magic and bubble gum: they can fix everything, if you have the right ratio.”

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