Rose Marie Noriega Charles, formerly Rose Marie Aguda, of Gustine, CA, has passed away at the age of 76 after a yearlong courageous battle with cancer. She was born in Gustine, CA to Ben and Petra Aguda. She married her high school love and immediately started a family. Together they raised two sons, Chris Mendes of Turlock, CA and Kevin Mendes of Denair, CA. She was a wonderful grandmother to three grandchildren, Emma Mendes of Turlock, CA, Sara Mendes of Turlock, CA and Sydney Mendes of Denair, CA. She is also survived by two daughters in law, Amy Boylan-Mendes of Turlock, CA and Alicia Mendes of Denair, CA.
She worked in several retail positions including for 20 years at JCPenney, Linens and Things and Robinsons May. After returning to care for her aging mother, she started a second career at Turlock Poker Room where she spent the last 14 years of her working career. She was always happiest, taking care of her customers and patrons, which made her very successful in both aspects of her very different careers.
When she wasn’t visiting with family or friends, she would most likely have been found on any golf course that she could drive to. She was always willing to pick up a friend or two in the quest for another round of golf followed by Sushi or any other variation of dinner that didn’t require you to be too quiet. She loved to laugh, boisterously, and encouraged everyone around her to do the same. Her bright purple hair always commanded attention in a room and it matched her laugh perfectly.
Rose’s bright spirit and infectious laugh will be missed by all that surrounded her. She will live through us in the memories that we shared together, and we would greatly appreciate it if you could celebrate her life with us.
The Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026, starting at 11:00 am in Gustine, CA at Harry Schmidt Park. 745 Linden Ave. Gustine, CA 95322.
Please wear bright clothing so we can truly celebrate her life together.
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