[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 105 (Thursday, June 15, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E569-E570]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING THE LIFE OF BUTTER GONZALES

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 15, 2023

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Butter 
Torres Gonzales, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and leader.
  Born on February 25, 1933, Butter was one of five children born to 
Salvador and Jessie Pinon Torres. In 1940, Butter and her family moved 
from Gonzales, California to Delano,

[[Page E570]]

California. In Delano, Butter attended Fremont School and graduated 
from the 8th grade in 1948. Around that same time, she met the love of 
her life, Lucio ``Chio'' Gonzales, when she was just 13 years old. It 
was love at first sight for both Butter and Chio, and their love would 
endure for all the years to come.
  After graduating from Delano High School in 1952, Butter moved to San 
Jose to live with her sister Nellie. In San Jose, she worked at the 
cannery for Del Monte. Throughout this time, Butter and Chio endured a 
long-distance relationship. The love between them never wavered and the 
two married on November 24, 1956.
  Over the next several years, Butter and Chio would expand both their 
family and their business. In 1955, the pair welcomed their first son, 
Anthony, into the world. Three years later, they had a second son named 
Eddie. Around this same time, Butter and Chio bought several 
properties, including People's Market, from Butter's father, Salvador. 
Butter and Chio would go on to work side by side for over 40 years. In 
1963, Butter, Chio and their two children moved into the home that she 
designed and that her father helped build. Four years later, Butter's 
daughter Heidi was born, and their family was complete.
  Chio became more involved in politics, and Butter played a huge role 
in his political success. She possessed the innate ability to talk and 
connect with anyone, leaving a lasting impression on many members of 
the community.
  Butter's priority in life was her family. One of the ways she showed 
her love was by cooking delicious meals for them. Whether it was her 
menudo or chile verde, if Butter ever cooked for you, it was a 
memorable meal. Butter found joy in cooking, taking care of her home, 
and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Even 
at 90 years old, Butter would play ``chick-a-dee-dee'' with her two 
great-grandsons and chase them around the house. She always opened her 
home to friends and family and made all those around her feel welcomed. 
Butter was also a woman of deep faith, and she worshiped at St. Mary's 
Catholic Church in Delano nearly every day.
  Butter died peacefully in her home on May 5. She was surrounded by 
her family. She is survived by her husband, children, grandchildren, 
great grandchildren, as well as the rest of her family. Her grace and 
impact on the community will not be forgotten.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Butter Torres 
Gonzales for her commitment to her family and her community. May we 
never forget her legacy and continue to be inspired by her story.

                          ____________________