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Life story

"Maria Elena Vanegas, age 76, born and raised in El Salvador, passed away surrounded by her family. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose life was centered on love, family, and service to others. Maria was known for her incredible cooking, her spotless home, and the care she poured into babysitting and raising generations of her family. She loved fiercely, especially as only a grandmother can. She found joy in flowers, laughter, and spending time with her children and grandchildren. Known for her sense of humor and infectious laugh, she brought warmth and light wherever she went. For over 40 years, Maria made Los Angeles her home and delighted in taking her family around the city, creating memories that will be cherished forever.
She is survived by her husband, Juan Arias of Los Angeles; her five daughters, Blanca Estela Vanegas, Norma Muños, Catalina Reina Muños, Sonia Muños (all of Los Angeles), and Berta Alicia and husband Mario Ramirez of Apopa, El Salvador; her son, Juan Antonio and wife Mariana Vanegas of Garden City, Kansas; and her five sisters and brothers.
Her 18 grandchildren include Jessica Vanegas, Carmen Rosales de Marquez, Irvin Rosales, Mario Ramirez, and Gerson Ramirez, all of El Salvador; Emerson Vanegas, Vanessa Palacio, Sara Natali Vanegas, Christian Vanegas Ramirez, Estephanie Sanchez Herrera, Nestor Vanegas, and Nancy Rosales, all of Los Angeles, California; Heber Vladimir Ramirez of San Bernardino, California; Diana Werner of Olathe, Kansas; and Rocio Elena Vanegas, Jaqueline Vanegas, Nicole Vanegas, and Juan Luis Vanegas, all of Garden City, Kansas. She is also survived by 15 great-grandchildren.
Maria was preceded in death by her parents, her brother, her brother-in-law, and her first husband, Juan Muños."