John Richard Gonzales

John “Richard” was born on October 22, 1948 in Bakersfield, California to Adolph Gonzales and Catherine Frances Gonzales and passed away on April 18, 2021. He lived a majority of his earlier life in Lamont, California prior to graduating from Arvin High School in 1966. In 1968, John enlisted in the military, serving his country as Corporal in the United States Marine Corp. While stationed in San Diego, he took various culinary courses that the USMC made available to him. His gift of cooking amazing cuisines was soon discovered, leading to his assignment as a personal cook for the “Exclusive” Sergeant’s Mess Hall. His famous S.O.S. dish he proudly created during his years of service will always be missed and remain a family favorite. John was proud to have served his country earning him the National Defense Service Medal.

Upon receiving Honorable Discharge in 1970, John enrolled in the Electrical Certification Program at Bakersfield College. He was employed as an electrician until his retirement from Bakersfield’s IBEW Local 428 Electrical Union. He enjoyed working with his hands and was well known for volunteering his skills wherever it was needed. His enthusiasm to help was most evident when assisting his daughter with her science fair projects that usually became his own off the chart creations. Always referring to himself as a “food connoisseur,” John’s passion for cooking remained a continuous influence throughout his life. Eager to share his culinary talents with others, John pursued the restaurant business through the ownership of Ricardo’s in Ridgecrest and Burrito King in Taft. John had a zest for life, a fondness of making cherished memories, while living each day as if it were his last. His love, laughter, and absence will forever be missed amongst us all. He will always be remembered for his fun-loving personality, generosity, and kindness for those who knew and loved him well.

John is survived by his daughter Stacy Gonzales-Fogle and her three children – Addisen, Reagan, and Jaxon; girlfriend of 19 years Eleanor (Ellie) Almarez; sisters Pat Rangel (Rudy) and Diana Venegas; brothers Ronnie Gonzales and Alvaro (Alvie) Ramos (Kathy); numerous nieces, nephews, and a host of long-time friends.

John was preceded in death by his parents Adolph Gonzales and Catherine Frances Gonzales; grandson Anthony James Fogle; sister Victoria Marie Gonzales-Bryson; brothers Eladio (Bug) Garcia, Jr. and Robert Berlanga-Gonzales, niece Christina Ann Rangel-Ortiz, and nephew Carlos Venegas, Jr.