Carmen A. (Griego) Abrego, 99, born December 9, 1923, in Puntenney, Az passed on Thursday, July 15.

Mom was formerly recognized for her contribution to the war effort and was an original Rosie the Riveter - she did it!

During this time period, Mom worked for Saginaw Lumber Company where she loaded ammo boxes onto train cars where they were ultimately transported to war zones. She also worked at Southwest Lumber Mill where she met our dad, Severo. There, she stacked heavy green lumber.

Later at the Navajo Ordinance Depot in Belmont (as it was known during World War II), Carmen worked in the canteens "kitchens" where she would transport sizable containers to what she called "Indian" camps and served meals to German prisoners of war. On occasion, she would secretly provide snacks to prisoners. One of the soldiers proposed marriage and asked mom to return to Germany with him. Thank goodness for us, she turned him down - flat! In her younger years mom worked many odd jobs including cleaning homes and working at a laundry.

Dad was diagnosed with a major illness and for five years required constant back-and-forth trips from Flagstaff to Phoenix. During that time, Mom was diligent about leaving prepared meals and clean clothing to sustain older siblings during her absence.

After dad's passing in 1968, mom did everything in her power to continue providing for us. We now look back and are in awe at what she was able to accomplish. She owned and operated a successful childcare business for over 24 years; facilitating her purchase of real estate which she managed for several years enabling her to remain independent throughout her life.

Mom loved changing curtains on every single window, every single season but not before windows sparkled and all curtains were starched and pressed! She'd get up on her stepping stool and do her thing whether anyone was assisting or not. The last time she did windows completely on her own was mid-July 2022. The "grabber tool" for some of her projects was invaluable.

For a short period of time, mom resided in a care facility but didn't like the fact that, as she said, "was full of old people", most being at least 20 years younger than herself. She often threatened to escape by climbing out the window and walking home, insisting that neither snow nor rain nor sleet nor shine would deter her. After a few weeks of complaining and being uncomfortable, Jim decided to bust her out of there! Losing her independence before she was ready was not an option!

After getting her wish, Mom returned where she felt most comfortable and continued to maintain her home in a manner that met her strict standards. In her later years mom kept her sharp and witty personality often bringing us to tears of laughter with her momisms and antics.

One of her favorite places was the Dollar Store where she spent hours perusing the aisles for just the right things. Mom exemplified dogged determination and fortitude, where she'd always remind us "where there's a will, there's a way".

Mom was a devout Catholic and had unshakable faith, trusting that God would meet her every need and not once did He fail her. She prayed constantly for her children and her entire family. We, her children, felt the sincere prayers of a mother! Mom will be desperately missed, and our hope is to reunite with her one day in the presence of our Lord!

Carmen is survived by her sister, Ignacia Alvarado, her four children: Linda, Richard, Santiago, Patricia (Michael), nine grandchildren, several great grandchildren and three great, great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

Viewing on Wednesday, July 26th from 5-7pm at Lozano's Mortuary, 2545 N 4th St.

Thursday, July 27th Rosary at 10am followed by mass at 10:30am at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, 234 S. Kendrick St.

Internment immediately following the service at Calvary Cemetery 201 W. University Drive. Take turn off of Milton Rd. as there is construction throughout the University and roads are blocked.

Reception following graveside service: San Francisco Asis Church (Bonaventure) Hall: 1600 E. Route 66

Testimonials during this time if anyone would like to participate.