Tributes

Edward A. Gonzales was born at home, on a farm in south San Antonio, Texas, on August 4, 1927, and went to heaven on May 20, 2024, at the age of 96. He was preceded in death by his parents Ramon and Teodora Arevalo Gonzales; sisters Mary G. Acosta, Ethel G. Bustos, Eleanor G. Garza; brothers Raymond Gonzales, Isaac Gonzales, Victor Gonzales, and Louis Gonzales. He is survived by his loving and dedicated wife of 73 years, Hortense Gonzales; daughters Alice Martinez (Armando), Martha Herrera (Julian), Pat Rodriguez (Tony), Brenda Castaneda, and Elva Duran (Luis); son Edward A. Gonzales (Denise); grandchildren Jillian Duran (Greg), Louis Duran (Carrie Jo), Sophia Castaneda, Mallory Elder (David), Victor Castaneda, Zachary Gonzales, Matthew Gonzales, Ariana Rodriguez, and Rachel Gonzales; great grandchildren Theodore, Easton, Jacob, Beau and Iris; and numerous nieces and nephews. Edward was a throwback to days gone by. Being raised on a farm, Edward witnessed his dad work the family farm in all aspects, including planting crops and tending to livestock and, when his daddy deemed him old enough to help, Edward was put to work at his daddy's side. Even in his last few years of life, and despite being ill, Edward shared very detailed stories of life on the farm. Though the days were at times difficult on the farm, Edward relished the sweet memories of working with his dad tending to the livestock and crops and helping his mother in the kitchen. In 1945, at the age of 18, Edward enlisted in the U.S. Army and served for a brief period. Beginning in July 1946 Edward began a distinguished Civil Service career at Kelly Air Force Base that spanned over 37 years, finally retiring as a GS-14 in January 1983. He retold those stories with a lot of love, nostalgia, and pride in his voice. The family would like to thank Dr. Charles Cervantes, his wife Nurse Elaine Cervantes and the staff of Axiom Hospice, Nurse Gloria Botello, Nurse Nicole LeBron and Berenice M., CNA for their professionalism, kindness, and care of our dad. At the end of his long-life Edward was surrounded by his family including his beloved wife Hortense, their children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, sons-in-law, and a niece and nephew. Prayers were said and songs were sung for Edward, a loving tribute by his family as he prepared for his journey to heaven. May he now rest in well-deserved peace.

Tributes

Edward A. Gonzales

August 4, 1927 - May 20, 2024