Richard Gonzales

He is preceded in death by his parents, Jesus Gonzales and Eriberta S. Riojas; sister, Ofelia Vara; brothers, Jacinto Cortinas and Gilbert Cortinas, Jr and nephew, Fernando Gonzales.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Benita Gonzales; children, Daniel Antu (Ruby), Sally Medellin (Mario) and Richard Gonzales, Jr (Erica); grandchildren, Daniel and Desiree Antu, Savanna and Savien Medellin and Richard III and Justin James Gonzales; sisters, Amalia Peralta and Guadalupe Ortegon and brother, Armando Alderete.

Richard cherished every moment spent with the love of his life, Benita. Holidays were especially close to his heart, bringing together all his family and grandchildren, and he looked forward to Thanksgiving and Christmas with particular excitement. Those were the times when he’d pour his passion for cooking into creating a grand feast, always featuring his famously delicious tamales. The care, effort, and love he put into each batch made his tamales unforgettable.

He loved the outdoors, often fishing at the coast and camping with family. His talent for music was truly remarkable—Richard formed his own mariachi group, led the church choir with pride, and taught numerous students to play instruments and discover a love for music.

Of all his accomplishments, Richard was most proud of the life he built for his family. Benita, his devoted wife, stood by him with unconditional love and care. Seeing his children grow up, marry, and start families of their own filled him with joy, and his grandchildren brought him countless moments of happiness and unforgettable memories.

Richard worked tirelessly to provide for his family. He dedicated many years to construction as a superintendent for Wallace L. Boldt in Killeen and San Antonio, Texas. His career later took him to Southwest Independent School District, where he made a lasting impact at Bob Hope Elementary and McAuliffe Middle School from the early 1990s until October 2024. Known fondly as “Mr. G,” Richard’s warmth and kindness touched the lives of countless students and faculty, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A visitation for Mr. G will be held on Wednesday, November 13, 2024 from 5:00PM - 9:00 PM at Trevino Funeral Home, 2525 Palo Alto Rd, 78242 with a Rosary to be recited at 7:00 PM. On Thursday, November 14, 2024 a Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated at 11:00 AM at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church with interment to follow at First Memorial Park Cemetery.