Honoring the Life of Pauline Gonzalez

HONORING THE LIFE OF PAULINE GONZALEZ -- (Extensions of Remarks - May 20, 2004)

SPEECH OF HON. RUBÉN HINOJOSA OF TEXAS IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Mr. HINOJOSA. Mr. Speaker, it is a great honor to stand before you to pay tribute to Pauline Gonzalez, a dedicated public servant, a loving wife and mother, and a role model for all. Pauline Gonzalez of Edinburg passed away on Monday, April 26, after a long illness. She will be remembered for her dedication to her family, her commitment to public service, and her passion for politics. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and colleagues.

Mrs. Gonzalez was born in Edinburg, Texas on March 16, 1927, to Francisco and Paula Garza. She was orphaned at a young age and was reared by her maternal grandmother, Gregoria Perez, her aunt, Segunda Perez, and her eldest sister, Hermencia. Her experiences as a young girl instilled the importance of family in her, and her commitment to those she loved never faltered.

In 1948, Mrs. Gonzalez married Jose Noe Gonzalez Sr. and together they had three children: Jose Noe Jr., Lucy, and Martha. Along with her dedication to family, Mrs. Gonzalez was a firm believer in the value of a good education. She attended Edinburg public schools, graduated from Edinburg High School, and despite the odds against her, pursued higher education at Edinburg Junior College. She instilled in her children the importance of education and it paid off. Her three children followed her example. Martha Salazar is Hidalgo County's purchasing agent, Lucy Canales is an Edinburg-based attorney, and Noe Gonzalez Jr. is a successful businessman.

Pauline began her career in 1945 as a deputy clerk for the Hidalgo County District Clerk's office. In 1960, after fifteen years of service, she left her position to devote more time to her family. She was very active with her church and many civic organizations, including the Hospital Auxiliary, the Hidalgo County Historical Museum and the Freddy Gonzalez American Legion Post 408 Auxiliary

In 1982, once her children were enrolled in college, she returned to the world of work and politics. Mrs. Gonzalez ran for and was elected District Clerk of Hidalgo County. Her victory made her one of the first women elected to office in the county. She broke through the barrier of a male dominated political world, but in her own special way. Her trademark high heels and lipstick were the perfect symbol for a woman whose elegance was not overshadowed by her ability to get things done. Her willingness to listen, her honesty and sincerity, and her commitment to her constituents to instill a confidence in their public officials, and she was solidly elected year after year. Mrs. Gonzalez's work ethic earned her the respect of her colleagues and the admiration of the people she dutifully served. She epitomized what every public servant should strive to be-accessible and willing to go the extra mile.

Above everything, it was Pauline's near perfect balance of determination and graciousness that made her a beloved member of her community. She was a dear friend, a lovely lady, and a devoted public servant who will be greatly missed by all. May she rest in peace.