Sister Dorena Gonzalez

Gonzalez, OP, Sister Dorena of Saginaw died on March 10, 2025. She was 92 years old and a Dominican Sister for 73 years.

Sr. Dorena earned a B.A. in teaching and a Certificate in Theology from Aquinas College. She also studied pastoral ministry at the Universities of Indiana and of Hartford.

Sr. Dorena spent many years teaching K-7th grade in Michigan and New Mexico. She also ministered as an interpreter at Indian-Chicano Health Center, Veterans’ Hospital, and St. Mary’s Hospital.

Sr. Dorena loved swimming, socializing, and dancing, especially the polka. She always had a smile on her face and shared her appreciation and love for life all while preaching and teaching the Gospel.

Sr. Dorena is survived by her sisters Alicia Robison, and Maria Elena Moreno; brothers, Raul (Minnie) Gonzalez, Frank (Mary Helen) Gonzales, Louis (Sharon) Gonzales, and Jesse (Susie) Gonzales; sister-in-law Linda Gonzales; other family; friends; and members of her Dominican Community.

Sr. Dorena will repose at Marywood Chapel of the Word, 111 Lakeside Dr. NE, with a Remembering Service on Friday, March 14, 2025, at 9:00 am and a Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 10:30 am. Burial will be at Resurrection Cemetery. Memorials in Sister Dorena’s name may be made to the Grand Rapids Dominican Sisters.