Elizabeth Mendoza, 16, of Owatonna, died Sunday, February 26, 2012 at her home. She was born October 4, 1995 in Laredo, Texas the daughter of Gregorio H. and Isabel Mendoza. Lizzy was full of smiles and giggles throughout her life as well as struggles with her health. She was blessed with her brother, Gregorio and sister, Valerie who played an active caretaking role in her life. Lizzy attended the Minnesota State Academy for the Blind in Faribault. In 2005, the Sunshine Foundation sent Elizabeth and her family on a memorable trip to Disney World in Florida. She is survived by her parents, Gregorio H. and Isabel Mendoza of Owatonna; brother, Gregorio Mendoza, III; sisters, Valerie Mendoza, Mia Mendoza; maternal grandmother, Juanita Mendoza of San Antonio, TX; paternal grandparents, Gregorio Mendoza Zapata and Maria Rosa Elia Hernandez de Mendoza of Monclova, Mexico; special friends, Jim and Linda Ackman of Faribault and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Jose Luis Zaragoza. Visitation will be at Michaelson Funeral Home on Friday from 12pm to 1pm. Funeral services will be held March 2, 2012 at 1pm at Michaelson Funeral Home with Father Thomas Joseph of St. Nicholas Catholic Church, Carver officiating. Interment will be in the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Owatonna. Visitation: 03/02/2012 00:00 03/02/2012 13:00 Service: 03/02/2012 13:00