Sally Escalante Saenz was born in Los Angeles, California on May 2, 1924 to Nestora and Juan Escalante. She was one of eight siblings that came to Shafter California in 1927 and was one of the original families that established and built the "Mexican Colony". She attended the local schools and in 1949 married the love of her life Michael Saenz Jr. in Wasco because there was no catholic church in Shafter; due to that, Sally belonged to St. Therese's club that helped to raise funds to establish St. Therese's Catholic Church by having bake and food sales, Jamaicas and dances. Often you would find Sally in her kitchen, with Mexican music in the back ground, cooking, baking or making tortillas for anyone that would come and visit. She attended the Escalante and Rodriguez family reunions. She prayed and recited the rosary in her quiet times; she blessed everyone that left her home. Her flower garden will miss her tender care and touch, especially when butterflies visit, as she thought that was one of God's beautiful gifts. Sally Escalante Saenz was preceded in death by 7 siblings and is survived by her loving and caring husband of 60 years Michael; brother Daniel Escalante and wife Julia; sons, Jimmy and Gary Saenz; daughter Victoria and husband Edward Rader; 2 granddaughters; 7 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren; loving extended families, friends and acquaintances that she touched along her life. Mass of the Resurrection will be held for Sally Escalante Saenz, age 85 of Shafter, Friday January 15, 2009 – 10 am at St. Therese's Catholic Church. Visitation will be from 2 to 5:30 at Peters Funeral Home and recitation of the Holy Rosary at St. Therese's Catholic church 6pm, Thursday, January 14, 2009. ********************************** The family of Sally Escalante Saenz would like to thank everyone who was near us at the time of our sorrow. The cards, flowers, food, prayers and continued support were appreciated with much gratitude from our hearts. This is a time that we acknowledge all who knew our mother (grandmother); it is thru all of you who made this time as comforting as possible. Please stay in touch with us as, God bless and keep you. Saenz and Rader Families.