Joseph Agostino Gonella

We are sad to announce the passing of Joseph Agostino Gonella, our beloved Dad, Brother and great friend to many. Born and raised in Merced, California to parents Paulo Gonella and Irma (Gonella) Ruth. To the end, Joe continued to be a home town boy with strong ties to many people in the community and was known for his big heart and love of friends. Serving briefly in the Navy and then finishing his obligation with the Army and National Guard, Joe continued his love of the military restoring WWII jeeps and equipment. Many knew Joe as the “Candyman” for the many times he sponsored a race night at Merced Speedway. In 1967, Joe started a Tom’s Candy distribution business with his late wife Burlene Gonella. J&B Distributors was in business until Joe’s retirement in 2010. After divorcing Burlene in 1988, Joe had a long term relationship with Loretta Ritter. He is survived by his brother Paul Gonella, (Ellen Gonella), his sister Irene Cottrell, (Dave Cottrell), and children Debra Gonella, (Whit Manley), Joe Gonella Jr., (Tina Gonella), Teena Maness (Gonella), (Erik Maness), David Gonella, (Ellen Gonella), Francine Gutierrez, (Josh Gutierrez), and grandchildren Chris, Josh, Teric, Emma, Katherine, Sheyenne, Micah, Marie, Brady, Joleigh, Rosemary, Leo and great grandchildren Hunter, Devin and Tommy. We will always love and remember him.

A celebration of life service will be held on Sunday, February 18, 2018 at 12:00 p.m. at Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home located at 1490 B Street Merced, California 95341

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to American Legion Post 83 / VFW of Merced located at 939 W. Main Street, Merced, California 95340.