Genoveva Mendez affectionately known as "Nana" was born in Quebradillas, Puerto Rico on January 23, 1947, to loving parents Pedro Igartua and Beatriz Mendez (deceased) She was the baby of 12 children. She went home peacefully at the age of 78 on September 23,2025.

Genoveva enjoyed going to the casino as long as she was chauffeured by her family. She loved playing the slot machines. She also loved cooking and was determined that everyone was fed, including those that she encountered.
The family enjoyed her wonderful cooking. Her specialties were arroz con gandules, pastels, alcapurrias and many more. She also enjoyed sewing, puzzles, and we can't forget her favorite shows (The price is right and Exatlón). However, what brought her greatest joy was the time spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Genoveva LOVED to play dominoes. Family and friends gave her the title "Queen of Dominoes." She could be found at all family gatherings at the dominoes table with her son-in-law Michael and whoever else wanted to join in the fun.

Genoveva is survived by son's Jose Angel, Jose Alberto (Isa), Jose Antonio (Nancy), daughter's Barbara (Michael) Maria (Rickey). Stepchildren Juan, Antonio, Alberto, Myriam, Margarita, Enrique, Burinda, and John. Grandchildren, Nathaniel, Ashley, Ciara, Rose Marie, Bianca, Natasha, Dulce, Linda, Macho, Nathan, Nani, Belinda, Pito, Amy, Juan Carlos, Camilla, Allison, Franz, Christian, Mariah, Jasmine, Ashley, Michelle, Antonio, Stephanie, Sandra, James, Carlos, Issaic, Christopher. Great grandchildren Justin, Christian, Lillianna, Estrella, Messiah, Ethan, Paris, Kamila, Legend, Jaelynn, Julianna, Jaime, Amelia, Ryokko, Jeveon, Jordan, Julian, Jeremiahs, Christian, Tyler, Jostipher and a host of nieces and nephews.

Genoveva was preceded in death by her husband, Juan Aponte, and daughter Rosalina Martinez, and her 11 siblings, son Reynaldo Aponte and Grandchild Michael Jr.