Maria Flores

Maria Estrella Flores, 83, 'Mother and Warrior', passed to Heaven on April 16th, 2018; "Wita" was a 'mother' not only to her two sons, but also to any other man or woman who had contact with her. Whether you were black or white, rich or poor, she never cared about your heritage, just your well being and your appetite. She would always ask "How can I help you?" or "Are you hungry?" or "How is your family?" Maria was from a humble, little town in Cuba named Minas De Matahambre. She arrived in Chicago with her husband Eustacio in 1968. Hand in hand, they worked in a gas station to provide for the education of their two sons. They became involved with the Mariel Boatlift Mission from Cuba in 1980. Like a true 'warrior', Maria traveled to Cuba with her brother Juan Mayor and his daughter Maritza in a 55ft. long ship to bring family members to the United States for the opportunity of freedom. They survived many hardships, including storms in the Gulf of Mexico. Maria and Eustacio spent their savings to assist friends and family who arrived in Chicago from Cuba. Maria lost her 40 year battle with Parkinson's Disease, but throughout she always continued to help and feed others.Rest in peace Mom. We love you and will always miss you. We will do our best to follow your example.Maria Estrella is preceded in death by her husband Eustacio and is survived by her sons Ramon, M.D. and Ruben (Clara) Flores; her loving grandchildren Eliza (Sal) Cuevas, Ruben (Tiffany) Flores, Barbara (Dave Thieme) Flores, Esq., Mavelis and Brianni Flores and great-grandchildren Mia, Julian, Averie and Max.Visitation will be Thursday April 19th from 3:00 - 9:00 p.m. at Cumberland Chapels 8300 W. Lawrence Ave., Norridge. Funeral service begins Friday at 8:30 a.m. from the funeral home proceeding to Our Lady Mother of the Church for 9:30 a.m. Mass. Interment to follow at All Saints Cemetery. Info: 708-456-8300 or www.cumberlandchapels.com