†Sister Dorena Gonzalez, OP

“All things are possible to him who believes.” (Mark 9:23)

From a young age, Sr. Dorena Gonzalez carried within her an infectious joy, a deep faith, and an eagerness to serve others. She once believed that this very joy might be an obstacle to religious life. Reflecting on her many years of ministry, she later wrote: “God gave me a joy from within that helped me to lead many to Jesus, not to myself.”

Theresa Gonzalez was born on October 15, 1932, in Saginaw, Michigan, the third child and first daughter in a family of twelve children. Her parents, Jose Maria and Manuela Almaguer Gonzalez, had migrated from Mexico and built their lives in Saginaw. Jose worked at Chevrolet Grey Iron Foundry and on a farm, while Manuela labored in the sugar beet fields and took in washing to support their growing family. Despite their hard work, they always prioritized faith and family.

Growing up in a large household, Theresa learned responsibility early, caring for her younger siblings with love and patience. She attended Potter Public School through third grade while also attending CCD classes, where she was first introduced to the Dominican Sisters. When she transferred to St. Joseph School, she met more Dominican Sisters, whose kindness and dedication made a lasting impression. She admired how these Sisters affirmed and encouraged their students, and she felt drawn to follow in their footsteps.

Still, she hesitated and wondered if someone as joyful and lively as she could really be called to religious life. But her desire to serve continued to grow, and she sought opportunities to explore it further. She spent time working with the Holy Ghost Mission Sisters, assisting in delivering babies, and witnessed firsthand the power of compassion in action. When she was in 11th grade, she watched a play about Dominican life performed by novices from Marywood. Seeing their dedication and joy convinced her to take the next step.

Her parents were initially hesitant about her decision, but they ultimately supported her calling. In October 1951, she entered the Dominican Sisters of Grand Rapids. She received the name Sister Dorena and made her first profession on June 1, 1953.

Her first assignment took her to Sacred Heart School in Muskegon, where she taught third and fourth grades. Over the next five decades, Sr. Dorena dedicated herself to education and pastoral ministry, serving in schools across Michigan and New Mexico, including Muskegon, Grand Rapids, Douglas, Taylor, Prudenville, Albuquerque, Saginaw, Melvindale, Gaylord, Burton, and Kingsley.

She taught a wide range of grade levels, from kindergarten through seventh grade, and was actively involved in CCD programs. Her commitment to education extended beyond children—she also taught English as a Second Language in Grand Rapids and Saginaw, led adult religious education classes, and even participated in census-taking to better understand the needs of the communities she served.

In addition to her teaching, Sr. Dorena pursued further studies, earning a B.A. and a Certificate in Theology from Aquinas College. She also attended Indiana University, the University of Hartford, and the College of Steubenville for continued education in religious studies and pastoral ministry.

After decades in the classroom, Sr. Dorena transitioned to a new form of ministry. In semi-retirement, she worked as an interpreter at an Indian-Chicano Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska, ensuring that language barriers would not prevent people from receiving medical care. She also volunteered as a religion teacher at a mission school, continuing her lifelong passion for sharing the faith.

Eventually, she returned to her hometown of Saginaw, dedicating herself to family ministry and volunteering at Veterans’ Hospital and St. Mary’s Hospital. In 2009, she moved to Marywood, where she found a new way to serve—assisting in support services as a sacristan.

Sr. Dorena was known for her enthusiasm, friendliness, and willingness to help wherever she was needed. Parents of her students were deeply impressed by her love for Christ and the affection she showed toward their children. One parent remarked: “She was more than just a teacher—she was a source of inspiration. Her joy was contagious, and her dedication to the students went beyond the classroom.”

Her former students fondly remembered her warm and caring nature. One student shared: “She always had a smile on her face and made learning fun. I was quite shy, but she took my hand and eased me into making new friends.”

Her love extended to those who often felt left out, ensuring that every child in her classroom felt valued and included.

Outside of her formal ministries, Sr. Dorena embraced life with joy and energy. She had a wide range of interests, including reading, swimming, socializing with friends and dancing, especially the polka!

Throughout her life, Sr. Dorena remained committed to her Dominican calling—sharing Jesus with others, spreading joy, and building up the community in faith. A job evaluation once summed her up perfectly:

“Enthusiastic, friendly, willing to pitch in, joyful—well-liked and deeply appreciated. We are glad to have her.”

Sister Dorena Gonzalez’s legacy is one of love, faith, and unwavering joy. She lived as a true preacher of the Gospel, bringing light to all who knew her.

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.