Cecilia M. Alcala

Cecilia M. “Chila” Alcala, 89, of Topeka, died on September 22, 2018 at her home surrounded by her family.

She was born in Topeka, Kansas on March 13, 1929, the daughter of John and Angelita (Aguirre) Martinez.

Chila worked as a Sales Associate in Ladies Apparel for Macy’s and later Dillard’s Department Stores.  She won awards for her exemplary sales records.

She enjoyed drinking coffee on her porch, going out to eat, cooking, caring for all animals, sewing, Mexican and Big Band music, dancing, and was a fashionista who loved her jewelry.  She was a Fiesta volunteer, a member of the Folklorico Dance Group “Balies Mestizos”, and always looked forward to the Bottoms Reunion. 

Chila will be most remembered for her love of family and friends who were always her priority.

Chila married Abel G. Alcala Sr. in Topeka on May 24, 1947.  He preceded her in death on January 11, 1993.  She was also predeceased by her siblings, John Martinez Jr., Lydia Serna, Joe “Cano” Martinez and Chona Martinez. 

She is survived by her sons, Abel “Sluggo” Alcala Jr. and wife Lorrie, John Alcala and wife Christina Valdivia-Alcala, two granddaughters, Yolanda (Josh) Uhl, and Ashley Lehman, four great grandchildren, Adrian Lehman, Avelina Uhl, Katalina Uhl, and Kennedy Lehman, her sister, Molly Ramirez of Chicago, and her beloved dogs, Bailey and Contessa.

Chila will lie in state at the Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home on Tuesday after 2:00 p.m. where a Parish Rosary will be prayed at 6:00 p.m.   Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.  Interment will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to Helping Hands Humane Society and sent in care of Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, Kansas  66603.

Online condolences and fond memories may be left at www.brennanmathenafh.com.