Erika Yesenia Gandara Amaya

July 30, 1972-August 12, 2019 This is the story of Erika Yesenia Gandara Amaya. An extraordinary woman that is loved, is missed, and will forever be cherished, our “Yesi” was a loving Tia, caring sister and beloved daughter. Yesenia’s story begins on July 30, 1972, the first daughter of Yolanda. Yesenia grew up between two countries, Mexico and the US. Her youth was much spent with her maternal grandparents, Dominga & Braulio in Vicente Guerrero, Durango, Mexico, where many of her aunts and uncles became her playtime pals. At the age of 13, she moved back to Cudahy, Los Angeles where many beautiful memories were created along-side her brothers and sisters. Always a motivated student, Yesenia attended Elizabeth Elementary, Nimitz Junior High, Bell Gardens High and Valley View High. During her adolescent years, Yesenia discovered who she was. New Wave music became her passion. There was never a moment when Yesenia wasn’t listening to her favorites like; Berlin, New Order, Blondie, or Tears for Fears. Yesi also loved to dance! Often times, she made her brothers and sisters dance along with her at many house parties and clubs dancing the night away. “Oye Yesi, todavia mueves el bote?” and of course she did. Experiencing love and marriage in her years after high school, and creating many lifelong friendships, Yesenia was a lively spirit whom left a lasting impression on every person she encountered. Never satisfied, she continued on her journey, but never forgot about her true passion, language. She was always her families’ favorite and best translator of all. “Oye Yesenia, que dice aqui?” Always a dreamer and never satisfied, Yesenia explored many avenues before she decided on her lifelong passion. With many obstacles throughout life, Yesenia never gave up. She was dedicated and stubborn at times, but continued on and went back to school after exploring many alternative paths life had placed upon her. The proudest moment arrived on June 7, 2019. After returning to college, Yesenia received her degree in Spanish for Transfer, Social Sciences in Arts, and Communication. Also, she received a certificate of Accomplishment in Community Interpretation and Translation. She graduated with honors. Her future was set and in the fall of 2019, she would be continuing on to achieve her BA at Cal State University of San Bernardino. Tragically, Yesenia lost her life way too soon on. On Monday, August 12, 2019, her journey ended while commuting to work as a Spanish Accounts representative for an energy company. Involved in a fatal car accident, she lost her life instantly. Erika Yesenia Gandara Amaya is survived by her grandmother Dominga Marrufo Ramirez, mother Yolanda Ramirez, Father Jose Gandara, brothers; Julio Gandara, Johnny Ramirez, Francisco Ramirez, and sisters; Karla Guzman and Jasmine Ramirez and many more loving family as well as cherished friends. “Rock On” Yesi!

Erika Yesenia Gandara Amaya

July 30, 1972 - August 12, 2019