Victoria Elizabeth (Carrizales) Gonzalez

Victoria “Vicki” Elizabeth Gonzalez (née Carrizales), 69, of Griffith, passed away peacefully at home on March 22, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Vicki was born on June 13, 1956, in Taylor, TX to Lupe & Raymond Carrizales. She was preceded in death by her father, Raymond Carrizales; her father-in-law, Irineo Gonzalez; her mother-in-law, Consuelo Gonzalez; brothers-in-law, Bob Martinez and Orlando Garcia.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 46 years, Michael Gonzalez; her beloved children, Matthew (Jessica) Gonzalez and Alexis (Andrew) Nashkoff; her mother, Lupe Castro Carrizales; her cherished grandchildren, Leah, Abel, and Elio, who lovingly knew her as “Mima”; her sisters, Catherine (William) Carrizales-Pintor, Natalia Guerra; brother, Ray Martin Carrizales; sister-in-law, Heather Carrizales; sisters-in-law, Suzanne Martinez, Teresa (Phil) Meyers, Eva (Gilbert) Garcia, Patricia Garcia, and Anita (William) Gonzalez; brothers-in-law, Rene (André) Gonzalez, Edward (Lydia) Gonzalez, and Jaime (Donna) Gonzalez; many loving cousins, nieces and nephews.

Vicki proudly earned her Bachelor’s degree from Ball State University and went on to receive her Master’s degree from Purdue University Calumet, reflecting her lifelong dedication to education and personal growth. Vicki dedicated 43 years of her life as a Special Education teacher with the School City of Hammond. She had a deep passion for teaching and formed many lasting friendships throughout her career across multiple schools. Her kindness, patience, and unwavering dedication made a lasting impact on countless students and colleagues.

Outside of her career, Vicki found her greatest joy in spending time with her family. She deeply loved spending time with her children and treasured the close bond they shared. She especially cherished her grandchildren, whom she loved more than anything in the world. Vicki created lasting memories with each of her grandchildren by dedicating a special trip to Walt Disney World just for them, a tradition that reflected her deep love and devotion to her family. Being a “Mima” was her greatest joy.

She treasured traveling with her loved ones and especially loved visiting family in Texas, a place that held a special place in her heart. She made countless memories at the Yogi Bear Campground with her grandchildren and could often be found cheering on her granddaughter at softball games. She also enjoyed lively Bunco nights with her dear friends and cherished catching up with her lifelong friendships. She held a special place in her heart for her compadres, whom she loved like family.

Vicki was the kind of person who always put others before herself. She was endlessly kind, generous, and willing to help anyone in need. Her beauty radiated from within, and her love and warmth touched everyone who knew her.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.

“A grandparent’s love is forever stitched into the hearts of their grandchildren.”

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the American Liver Foundation in Vicki’s Memory.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 29, 2026 from 2-6pm at Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 8941 Kleinman Road (one block south of Ridge Rd) Highland, IN .

Mass of Christian Burial will be Monday, March 30, 2026 at 10am at St. Mary Catholic Church, 525 N. Broad Street Griffith, IN with Rev. Keith Virus officiating.

For further information, please contact Hillside Funeral Home, Konnie Kuiper - Michael Kuiper-Vass by calling 219-838-0800 or visiting us at www.hillsidefhcares.com

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