Born in San Gabriel, CA on December 15, 1923 to loving parents Jose Mercado Gonzalez and Maria de Jesus “Jesusita” Villa Gonzalez. Sal was a Stockton resident for 95 years. He is survived by his loving wife Carmen Islas Gonzales, daughter Helen (Gustavo) Vertiz, and sons Michael and Jerry (Gina) Gonzales, sister Hortencia Lucas, grandson Michael Gonzales II, and granddaughters Kristen (Josh) Manley, Maria (Aaron) Adams, Analisa Gonzales, and Gabriela Gonzales, five great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
Sal was preceded in death by his parents Jose and Jesusita natives of Zacatecas Mexico, brothers and sisters Daniel Gonzales, Elvira “Vera” Guerrero, Arthur Gonzales, Joe Gonzales, Phillip Gonzales, Michael Gonzales, Frank “Abe” Gonzales, Lupe Dobales and Eddie “Nono” Gonzales.
As a lifelong resident of Stockton, Sal attended Stockton schools and worked as a Printing Pressman until his retirement. Sal proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during WWII, received numerous decorations and was honorably discharged at the rank of Staff Sergeant. As a five star family, he being one of five (stars) brothers who served during WWII and thankfully they all made it home. He was a member of the Latin American Club, American Legion and proud 40 year member of the Pressman’s Union.
He was a devoted family man showing great devotion to his parents, brothers and sisters, and ultimately with his wife Carmen over 68 years of marriage and their children and grandchildren. Sal was an avid reader for many years having read possibly thousands of books in his lifetime. He enjoyed fishing well into his senior years, traveling, gardening, walks and spending time with his large extended family.
Sal will always be remembered for his intelligence, quiet demeanor, caring nature, good sense of humor, and occasionally a cold beer at the end of a hard day’s work.
Dad we will truly miss you and will love you for all time. You did such a great job as a son, father and husband we pray with confidence that heaven has welcomed you.
Visitation is scheduled for Monday, May 24, 2021 from 2 to 6 pm and rosary at 6 pm at DeYoung Memorial Chapel, Stockton. Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for 1 pm Tuesday, May 25, 2021 at St. Luke Catholic Church, to be followed by burial at the San Joaquin Catholic Cemetery.
