Lucille M. Gonnella

Matriarch of the Union Hotel and pillar of the Occidental community, Lucille Gonnella, passed away on January 28, 2021 in Occidental at the age of 90 years. Devoted wife of the late Daniel A. “Mahoney” Gonnella.  Cherished mother of Michael Gonnella (Marie), Mary Theresa Gonnella, Daniel Gonnella (Julane), Frank Gonnella (Barbara), and the late Mark Gonnella.  Adored Nonn i e of Matthew, Theresa, Angela Gonnell a and Jeff Williams ; Lisa Franceschi, Lori Haggart, and Lynn Cibrian; Francesca Gonnella and Teddy Gonnella; Chelsea Gonnella; and Gienna Michel Gonnella.  Beloved great-grandmother of 1 8 and great-great-grandmother of three.

Lucille was born in Santa Rosa to Mary (Alberigi) and Carlo Panizzera.  She grew up in Occidental right next door to the Union Hotel, and both places were home to her.  On November 6, 1949, she married the love of her life, Daniel “Mahoney” Gon n ella at St. Philip Church in Occidental.  She was devout in her Catholic faith and taught CCD classes at St. Philip’s. Lucille was the heart of the Union Hotel and s he welcomed and valued each guest, making sure all patrons felt like they were one of the family . Lucille traveled the world and enjoyed other cultures.  She owned a home in Lago di Como, Italy and had her very own “Little House on the Prairie” in Bieber, CA. Lucille was a gifted piano player , loved music, and enjoyed cooking. She loved great food , a good glass of wine, and was known to drink a sweet old fashion ed .  Ever the hostess, she knew how to hold elegant holiday gatherings. Lucille valued education and she received her AA from SRJC, attending at the same time as her son, Frank. Above all, Lucille loved her family.  She kept cookies in her special cookie jar for all her family to enjoy. She was a wonderful woman and will be greatly missed.

Due to Covid-19, private family services will be held.  A public memorial will be held at a later date.  Memorial contributions may be made to St. Philip the Apostle Church and/or support a local restaurant by having dinner in her memory .  Private Interment: Druids Cemetery, Occidental.

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