Johnnie Anthony Gonzales

Johnnie was born on October 27, 1957, in Houston Texas to his mother Cindy and father Johnnie. He was a jack-of-all-trades. He spent his younger years with his dad doing repairs at home, rentals, and little jobs on the side. That is where the foundation started for being a handyman. He joined Houston’s Union Local 54 where he was able to put his skills to use to lead a very lengthy and successful career in sheet metal. He worked hard in the Houston heat, as well as taking jobs on the road, and was often known as the funny man who kept everyone laughing at the job site.

Johnnie had an interesting way of handling life. Backed by his comedic humor, he did things his way. He was a strong-willed man who was known for sticking to his guns, and never backing down Where he was, a very prideful man, he was also very soft-hearted. He could feel your emotions and would be there for you as much as you would let him. It might have come with a lecture or two and some tough love, but that is how he was.

He took joy in hosting people in his big backyard. Whether it be family friends or even a stranger, he loved to host parties for just about any reason. Many birthdays, anniversaries, Easter egg hunts, and even simple barbecues were hosted there under the big, beautiful trees of Garden Oaks. His corner of the block would be filled with good music and people cracking up at all the outrageous stories he would share with everyone; always making sure everyone was having a good time. He was also a big supporter of family playing sports, especially softball and baseball. He would always show up and be active in the stands. You could always hear him out there, yelling from the bleachers in the good times and the bad. With his kids in tow, he visited many softball parks to support his daughter Toni his granddaughters and grandsons. He will also show support for his son Johnnie with his baseball-coaching career as well.

While he was often jokingly referred to as the Grinch of the family, he had a serious soft spot for the Christmas holiday. His corner lot home was always decorated to capacity with locally made, hand painted cartoon characters. The illuminating display always brought forth a crowd of neighbors and strangers passing by that would make stops to compliment his work and take photos. Winning yard of the month and making the Houston Chronicle his yard was one of his pride and joys.

Johnnie is survived by his mother Cindy, his brother Thomas, his sister Monica. His children Cassandra, Johnnie and Toni. Grandchildren Nuvia, Gessenia, Jose Jr, Luis, Johnnie Ray, Lena, Kayla and great granddaughter Allison.