Mary Lou Mendez, 77, passed away Wednesday, April 28, 2021, at her home in Great Bend. She was born May 29, 1943, at San Antonio, Texas, to Frank Ramirez Sr. and Lottie (Sauceda) Ramirez. She married Gilbert Mendez March 12, 1980 in Iowa. 

Coming from Lakin in 1981, Mary Lou was a Great Bend resident. She enjoyed bingo and casinos. She enjoyed time with her family but especially loved spending time with her grandkids.  

Survivors include, her husband Gilbert Mendez of the home; seven sons, Steve Martinez and wife Dora of Hollis, Okla., Tony Martinez and wife Tracy of Larned, Augie Martinez and wife Sherry of Spokane, Wash., Javier Martinez of Altus, Okla., Salvador Martinez and wife Edna of Plainville, Texas, Larry Martinez and wife Maria of Amarillo, Texas, and Noel Martinez of Great Bend; two daughters, Ruby Perez and husband Adam of Lakin, and Angelica Mendez of Great Bend; three brothers, Frank Ramirez Jr., Henry Ramirez and Rudy Ramirez all of San Antonio, Texas; two sisters, Gloria Mingura of San Antionio, Texas, and Janie Villareal of Great Bend; 42 grandchildren; and numerous great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; her sons, Rudy Martinez Jr. and David Martinez; a brother, Arthur Ramirez; and her sister, Hortencia Ramirez. 

Visitation will be held from 3 to 9 p.m., Thursday, April 29, 2021 at Bryant Funeral Home. Funeral Service will be held at 1 p.m., Friday, April 30, 2021. Memorials have been designated to the Mary Lou Mendez Funeral Expense Fund, in care of Bryant Funeral Home. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Bryant Funeral Home

1425 Patton Road

Great Bend, KS  67530

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, April 30, 2021