Margaret Loraine Vasquez

August 10, 1930 - November 8, 2014

Margaret L. Vasquez passed away November 8, 2014 at Cottage Hospital. She was born in Santa Barbara on August 10, 1930. Up until her stroke, Margaret had been an active and energetic parishioner at San Roque Parish since before 1974. Before 1974, Margaret volunteered helping around the Church in many capacities. In 1974, Margaret was hired on at San Roque Church as Sacristan. Margaret not only took on the duties of Sacristan, she also learned how to make beautiful flower arrangements for the Church and eventually became the only florist. Several times throughout her life at San Roque she helped in the Rectory by taking care of the elder priests. She would cook meals and do the laundry of the Rectory and the Church. Not only did Margaret take care of the priests, she took care of the Church and everyone who visited the Church. Many call her "our Docent" as Margaret knew many interesting stories of San Roque to the delight of all visitors. Margaret was even honored with the Papal Blessing and considers it as one of her greatest treasures. Margaret continued taking care of the Church, keeping it beautiful and supplied with all the necessary items to keep the Church running smoothly up until her stroke. Although Margaret was only scheduled to work a few hours a week, she was always at San Roque. Many would tell her to go home and she would respond, "No, THIS IS MY HOME." Margaret was predeceased by her brother John and her sister, Mary Powelson. She is survived by her brothers: Frank, Henry, Arthur, Joe and Richard; and a sister, Lupe L. Vasquez and many nieces and nephews. Visitation will be Thursday, Nov. 13 at 6:00 PM at Welch-Ryce-Haider downtown chapel followed by a Rosary at 7:00 PM. Graveside services will be Friday, Nov. 14 at 11:00 AM at Calvary Cemetery.