Tanya Gonzalez's Obituary
Tanya Gonzalez of Spring Lake, Michigan, died peacefully at home after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born in July 1961 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. As a young person, Tanya was athletic and competitive, excelling in both tennis and swimming. She later attended Michigan State University, where her adventurous spirit led her to enroll in a study abroad program in London, England. It was there that she met fellow Spartan and the love of her life, Gary Gonzalez.
Tanya and Gary were married for 40 years and raised two children, Kristina and Matthew, in Spring Lake. Tanya built a career in event marketing and communications throughout Michigan, starting at Joe Louis Arena, a senior position at the Muskegon Summer Celebration, and most recently at Muskegon’s Aquastar.
She retired early and devoted herself to her passions: traveling to visit family and friends, pottery, and being “the best Nana” to her five grandchildren—Allison, Arie, Nora, Quinn, and Luca. Her love for tennis remained constant throughout her life, leading her to coaching, teaching, and countless lifelong friendships. Tennis was not just a sport to Tanya, but a community and a lifestyle.
Tanya will be remembered for her playful competitive spirit on the tennis court and beyond, living in the moment, being present for family and friends, and offering steadfast love and support to those in her inner circle. She was always quick to laugh, dependable, honest, and authentically herself.
Tanya is survived by her loving husband, Gary, and their very special retired K-9, Shadow; daughter Kristina Wozniak (Mike); son Matthew Gonzalez (Tori); brother Mark Spelman; sisters Sara Wykes (Dan) and Megan Spelman (Vicent Poquet); and her beloved grandchildren Allison, Arie, Nora, Quinn, and Luca.
A celebration of life will be held 1-3 PM and 5-7 PM Sunday, January 18, 2026, at The Spring Lake Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 213 E. Savidge Street, Spring Lake, MI 49456. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Tanya may be given to the American Cancer Society or the Harbor Hospice Foundation. Please sign the family’s online guestbook at Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services.
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