Margaret Villanueva was born Margaret Armendarez on February 25, 1925. She was born in Los Angeles, but was a lifelong resident of San Pedro. Margaret was the oldest of 14 children and was very close to both of her parents. She was a central figure to her siblings and their children throughout her lifetime.
Margaret married Gil Villanueva when she was 18. They settled in San Pedro and raised their six children. Her family was always around her — brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews — along with her own children and grandchildren. Margaret enjoyed the energy, activity and love of her large family.
Gil and Margaret owned and ran Gil’s Cafe for a few years. Later, Margaret worked as a waitress in several local San Pedro restaurants, the Tasman Sea, La Conga’s and Hobby Nobby, to name a few. Margaret was welcoming, she opened her home to friends and family and loved social gatherings. She was a very energetic and adventurous person. She loved to swim in the ocean — her kids and grandkids will always remember their frequent trips with her to the beach.
Margaret was proud of her six children, 19 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.