September 2, 2009 > Union City pays tribute to Baby Matea Esperanza Union City pays tribute to Baby Matea Esperanza By Meenu Gupta Photos By Courtesy of Meenu Gupta Matea Esperanza, Baby Jane Doe, whose name means "a gift of God," was found deceased on May 18, 2009 in Union City in a trash bag in an apartment complex. The matter is under investigation. She was laid to rest on July 22, 2009. Several members of the community stepped forward and assisted in the funeral of the abandoned child. Chapel of the Chimes Funeral Home of the Lifemark Group, Lifemark Group President and CEO Andy Bryant, Chapel of the Chimes Directors Jessica Tillery and Arlyn Unruh adopted the child as a member of their extended family. Chapel of the Chimes provided the guest book, the burial plot, the casket, head stone, printed programs and staff support for the funeral services. Fremont Flowers shared their time and resources and made donations to provide for a proper and meaningful tribute to the life of Matea Esperanza. Members of Union City Police Department and Fremont Flowers and Manager Randy Pinto, also extended their support. Manager Kamery "Kam" Lee Jr., provided the casket spray and floral arrangements on display during the services. UCPD Chaplain Albert Valencia gave selflessly of his own time and resources and volunteered to coordinate and arrange a funeral service so that Esperanza would have a fitting tribute to her short life. Valencia officiated at the service for Matea Esperanza as she was laid to rest. Union City's Babies "R" Us store graciously provided the dress Matea wore when she was laid to rest. The City Council recognized the selfless support of these members of the community and expressed gratitude for their support in the celebration of Matea Esperanza's life.