Ariana Marie Gonzalez

With broken hearts, we announce the passing of Ariana "Ari" Marie Gonzalez, age 18, on Monday, August 31, 2026, in Pendleton, Indiana. Ariana was a 2026 graduate of Pendleton Heights High School.

Ariana was born on January 14, 2008, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Jesus Gonzalez and Ashley Pitones. She brought joy, laughter, and love to everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Ariana attended kindergarten through the first semester of eleventh grade at Rio Hondo Independent School District before transferring to Pendleton Heights High School, where she successfully earned her diploma. She aspired to pursue a career in childhood development, a reflection of her caring heart and compassion for others. Just last week, she started a new job and was excited and proud to begin her first "real job." She had also recently begun volunteering at the local Humane Society, where her favorite place was the cattery. She had a heart for the vulnerable and those in need.

Those closest to Ariana will remember her as funny, responsible, caring, kind-hearted, shy, and quiet, yet also outspoken about matters close to her heart. Her sisters remember her curious nature, free spirit, and the way she unapologetically marched to the beat of her own drum - often in her favorite Converse shoes.

She loved to read, and her creative talents were on full display through her drawing and sketching. She was a foodie who enjoyed favorites such as burgers, tacos, Indian food, seafood, chocolate, and especially Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. She also loved going to the movies and spending cozy nights at home during family movie nights, where Disney movies were often part of the evening and The Book of Life held a special place as her favorite movie. Ariana and her brothers, Sebastian, Aaron, and Xavier, enjoyed ordering favorite foods through DoorDash and binge-watching favorite shows together, including various anime series, South Park, and Rick and Morty.

She is survived by her father, Jesus Gonzalez, and her stepmother, Janine Espinoza; her mother, Ashley Pitones; her siblings, Sebastian Espinoza, Sofia Fuentes, Aaron Gonzalez, Xavier Gonzalez, Isabella Martinez, and Kylie Pitones; her grandparents, Janie Pitones "aka Mom," Gerardo Gonzalez, and Ernestina Gonzalez; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and loved ones who will miss her dearly and forever carry her memory in their hearts.

She was preceded in death by her beloved grandpa, Rey Pitones, who lovingly called her "Princess."

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 3, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Bozell Funeral Homes and Crematory, Lahm Chapel, 211 East State Street, Pendleton, Indiana 46064.

Funeral rites will be held on Friday, September 4, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Bozell Funeral Homes and Crematory, Lahm Chapel, with Father Cole Daily officiating.

A graveside service will follow at Grove Lawn Cemetery, 537 North Pendleton Avenue, Pendleton, Indiana 46064.

While our hearts ache at her loss, we are grateful for the 18 beautiful years we shared with Ariana. Her love, laughter, and spirit will remain with us always.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon Ariana. May she rest in peace. Amen.

Online condolences may be shared at www.bozellfuneralhomes.com.