Jose Gonzalez

Jose Gonzalez (76) passed away November 12, 2024. He is survived by his wife Maria, to whom he was married for 52 years, his sons Cesar (Gabriela) and Christopher (Melissa) of El Paso, TX, daughter Ruth Gonzalez-Hill (Vincent) of Murfreesboro, TN, grandchildren Ashley (Paul) of Leesburg, VA, Alexis of Houston, TX , Nataliah, Jordan (Jannette), Erika of Murfreesboro, TN, Caitlin (Cesar), Christopher, Jacob, Julian, Isabelle, Eric, Rebecca of El Paso, TX, and great grandchildren Gabriella, Milani, Leia, Jaiden, and was eagerly awaiting the birth of the newest great grandchild Kai. He was also survived by his sisters, MariaLuisa, Enriqueta, Manuela, Estella, Irene, Margarita, and Rosa, numerous nieces, nephews, and their children and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents Maria and Jose, siblings, Jesus, Mary, Irma, and son Jose Jr. (Jody).

Jose was a longtime resident of El Paso and dedicated his life to the service of others. At 17 years old, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in Vietnam. During his term as an Army Medic, he earned a Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Bronze Star Medal with Valor, Combat Medical Badge, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Marksman (Rifle) Medal. He was honorably discharged in August of 1969.

Jose continued his commitment in service to community by serving on boards of local youth sports organizations, spearheading Thanksgiving food drives, youth bicycle safety events, and serving as Post Commander of V.F.W. Post 8782. Jose was a dedicated employee in any position he held. He retired from the El Paso Street department in 1995.

Jose was lovingly known as “Watusi” and spent his best moments on the dance floor with Maria and carrying and presenting the colors in local parades and events. He was an encouraging father with clear expectations. He was proud of his accomplishments and those of his children and family. He lived a life grateful for the blessings that were bestowed on him.

He was a lifelong catholic. He raised his children as a member of Cristo Rey parish and later became a member of Santa Lucia Catholic Church. When he was no longer able to attend mass in person he watched on television as his commitment to God and faith was genuine.

The family is grateful for the prayers and support they have received during this difficult time. Special thanks to Remarkable Hospice for their role in bringing Jose and the family through this transition.

The family requests, in lieu of flowers, that donations be made to Remarkable Hospice, or any organization that supports veterans and their families.

Pall Bearers will be Eleazar Vizcaino, Rigoberto Gonzalez, Heriberto Garcia, Joe Contreras Jr., Ramon Cortez, and Joshua Espinoza. Honorary Pall Bearers are Julian Gonzalez, Jacob Gonzalez, Christopher Garcia, Eric Gonzalez, Jordan Hill.

A visitation for Jose will be held Wednesday, November 20, 2024 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Hillcrest Funeral Home, 1060 North Carolina Dr., El Paso, Texas 79915. A rosary will occur Wednesday, November 20, 2024 at 7:00 PM, 1060 North Carolina Dr., El Paso, Texas 79915. A funeral mass will occur Thursday, November 21, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at San Antonio De Padua Catholic Church, 503 Hunter Dr, El Paso, Texas 79915. A graveside service will occur Thursday, November 21, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM at Fort Bliss National Cemetery, 5200 Fred Wilson Ave, El Paso, TX 79906.