Mr. Charles Gonzales

Charles Gonzales was born December 15, 1936 in Dallas, Texas. He is preceded in death by his parents Jesse Gonzales, Sr., Antonia Gutierrez Gonzales and two infant sons; Benjamin Gonzales and Michael Gonzales and grand-daughter Lauren Faith Hartman. Charles grew up in Dallas and attended San Jacinto, Stephen F. Austin and Wm. B. Travis Elementary Schools. At Travis Elementary he was a member of the Optimist Club and participated in the Optimist Oratorical Finals. One might say that the Optimist Creed became Charles’ basic and fundamental credo for living and guiding principles. “To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.” “To make all your friends feel that there is something in them.” “To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own.” “To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.” Four of the ten Optimist Creed concepts mentioned. At N. R. Crozier Technical High School, he was an outstanding athlete in football and track. He was known for his sportsmanship and distinguished character among athletes and friends. After graduation he enlisted in the United States Marine Corp. He was honorably discharged in 1959 with the rank of Pvt. 1st Class. He left the Marine Corps with a new sense of challenge and determination to succeed in life. Charles returned to Dallas, married his high school sweetheart, Virginia Hernandez in1959 and started his career with William K Hall Consulting Engineers. He was an ambitious young man and learned the value of hard work early. In 1975, while working for Herman Blum Consulting Engineers, he took his family halfway around the world to Tehran, Iran to further his career. Before returning to the United States in 1977, he took his family on a month long excursion through Europe and the UK. In 2006, Charles “retired” from the position of Construction Administrator with Systems Associates, Inc. While Charles loved so many, the most important thing in life was family. He was devoted to providing a wonderful life and enriching life experiences for those he loved as his family traveled throughout the United States and countries abroad, including Aruba, Rio de Janeiro, Panama, Mexico, just to name a few. When he wasn’t working, he was volunteering his time as peewee football coaching, mentoring and promoting his proud Mexican heritage. He served in local boards and committees. He founded Winner Circle Roundup, WCR in 1988. WCR furthered character, celebrated heritage and praised spirituality to young adults. During his spare time, Charles was an avid golfer and loved hitting the links with his golf buddies, brothers and sons. He leaves behind an enduring legacy of love. Charles Gonzales went home to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on September 1, 2016. He is survived by his wife of fifty-seven years, Virginia Hernandez Gonzales. Fifty-seven plus years of dating and marriage, a testament to their enduring and faithful love. His four children: Carlos Andres; Paul Edward and wife Pam; Michael David and wife Dawn and daughter Rachel Renee’ and husband Brad Hartman. Grandchildren: Maria Baker, Dustin, husband; Jessica Gonzales - Andy, parent; Brandon, Blake and Bryce Gonzales - Paul and Pam, parents; Fara Cummings, PJ, husband; Savanna Gonzales and Kray Gonzales - Michael and Dawn, parents; Ryan and Adam Hartman - Rachel and Brad, parents. Three Great Grandchildren: Braxton Cole Baker - Maria and Dustin Baker. PJ, Jr. and Finley - Fara and PJ Cummings. Loving Brothers and Sisters: Jesse Gonzales, Jr. Martha Cuello, John Gonzales, Antonio Gonzales, Mary Contreras, Carmen Gonzales, Josie Castillo, Joe Gonzales and Rita Martinez. Cousins: Arriaga, Gutiérrez, Contreras and Gonzales Familias. Nephews, Nieces, Compadres, Friends. He will be dearly missed.