Merced "Mercy" Lopez Gonzales, passed away March 20 in his Mentone home, he was 78. Anyone who had the privilege of knowing Mercy would know he was a giving, loving, humorous man who enjoyed life to the fullest. Mercy was born and raised in Redlands until 10 years ago when he moved to Mentone. He is survived by is wife of 55 years, Victoria Nunez Gonzales; two daughters, Paula Alferez (David) of Mentone and Adela Gonzales of Redlands; two grandsons, David and Jacob Alferez, four brothers, Benny Gonzales of Victorville, CA, Peter Gonzales of St. Helena, CA, Nick and Chalo Gonzales both of Redlands, CA. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Victor and Frank Gonzales (both of Redlands) and his sister, Santos Mayoral of Redlands as well. Mercy was employed by Redlands Unified School District for 30 years working as a Lead Custodian at Victoria Elementary School, he was known there as "Mr. Mercy". After retirement he continued working, doing what he loved with Redlands Farming. He spent many hours in the
Citrus Groves, providing consultation to orchard owners, buying groves, caring or them and selling the fruit. He loved this work. It is with a heavy heart we say goodbye to someone who touched so many and gave freely to those in need. We will miss the bi-yearly Algodones trips, the good morning "yoohoo's", the state line trips, his humor, and most of all his ability to always make us laugh.
Visitation for "Mercy" will be held Thursday, April 5, 2018 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Montecito Valley View Chapel, 3520 E. Washington St., Colton, CA 92324. Graveside service will be held on Friday, April 6, 2018, 1 p.m. at Montecito Memorial Park.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.montecitomemorialparkandmortuary.com for the Gonzales family.
