Joseph Morales Gonzales Sr.

Born and raised in Phoenix, Joe was the first of eleven children born to Joe and Tillie Gonzales. He was a life-long resident of the valley. In his early years Joe followed in this father’s trade as a block mason later joining the Phoenix Fire Department as a firefighter in 1977. He proudly served for 31 years retiring as a PFD Engineer in 2008. He loved his service as a firefighter and looked to his peers as family. He is admired by the many he tutored and mentored into becoming firefighter recruits. One of his most treasured blessings was seeing his sons hired as firefighters and most recently promoting to PFD Chiefs (Joe Jr. and Mark) and Captain (Chris).

Words cannot express the love Joe had for his wife, children and grandchildren. A man who cherished attending his grandchildren’s school functions, family gatherings and visiting with many of his aunts, uncles, and cousins. His smile, laughter and countless stories would light up a room.

Joe is preceded in death by his father and mother, Joe and Tillie Gonzales, and brother Mark. Survived by wife Lorraine, daughter Joanne, sons from his first marriage to Virginia Aldama Gonzales: Joe Jr. (Tessa), Chris (Tina), Mark (Lori), 14 grandchildren and step-son Johnny Perez. He is also survived by his siblings Robert, David (Becky), Pedro (Juanita), Danny (Carmen), Dianna (Robert), Alfonso (Cindy), Michael (Maria), Paul, Elizabeth (Pete) along with many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

Joe, you left us too soon and we will never be the same. We look forward to seeing you again at the greatest reunion ever - in Heaven.

A funeral service will be held for Joe on Saturday, January 4, 2020 at 10:00am held at Christ Church of the Ascension, 4015 E Lincoln Dr. Paradise Valley, AZ 85253.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to United Phoenix Firefighters Charites, 61 E Columbus Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85012