Tributes

Israel “Kael” Gonzalez of San Antonio, Texas, passed away peacefully on April 15, 2025, at the age of 91. With a full, long life, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and man of many callings. Israel brought laughter, wisdom and adventure to every chapter of his remarkable life. Born in 1934 to Rufino and Vicenta Gonzalez in San Antonio, Texas, Israel’s early years were shaped by values of hard work, loyalty, and service. As a youngster, his family moved to Laredo, Texas where he ventured outside his neighborhood to explore the wilderness beyond armed only with his beloved slingshot while riding his bicycle. Later, he answered the call to duty as a proud U.S. Marine where he embodied courage and camaraderie. After his enlistment, he returned home to Laredo with a strong interest in pursuing his education via the GI Bill. He met his future wife, Delia Laura Sanchez, for the first time while registering at Laredo Junior College that led to that first blind date that evolved into almost 68 years of companionship of which 64 years and 4 months were of marriage. His educational pursuits with the aid of Delia led him to enroll and eventually graduate from Texas A&I University located in Kingsville Texas. His deep commitment to education and mentorship led to his profession as a lifelong classroom teacher with stints as a beloved basketball coach who inspired young student athletes to push beyond their limits on and off the court. Israel’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to become a business owner where he earned a reputation for fairness and innovation. He also served as a private game warden, protecting wildlife and promoting conservation. Later, he served as a columnist penning a weekly outdoor wildlife column for the local newspaper. He had many interests and hobbies including hunting, fishing, and playing the guitar. As an avid hunter, especially skilled with bow and arrow, Israel found peace amid nature, but his truest joy was found at home. A fierce and accomplished basketball player in his youth and a passionate fan throughout his life, he delighted in pickup games with friends and cheering courtside for his grandchildren. Known for a quick wit and a ready laugh, he had the warm gift for lightening up any room with either a good joke or an affectionate tease. His ability for humor allowed him to receive as good as he gave. Israel was preceded in death by his son, Israel “Mico” Gonzalez Jr. (spouse, Tina Griffles Gonzalez), granddaughter Julianna Marie Gonzalez; his siblings Mario Gonzalez (Sara Gonzalez), Rosa Guardiola (Chano Guardiola), and Raquel Chapa (Faustino Chapa). He is survived by the love and pride of his life, his wife Delia Laura Sanchez, his four children: Xavier Eduardo Gonzalez (Mary Lou Gonzalez), Patricia Trawick (Terry Trawick), Priscilla S. Gonzalez (Gregorio Ortiz III), and Alexandra G. Villarreal (Jimmy Villarreal). He cherished his grandchildren—Xavier Eduardo Gonzalez Jr., Ashley Nicole Gonzalez, Diego Andrés Gonzalez, Matthew Augustus Alvarado, Lauren Elizabeth Suzanne Alvarado, Christopher Alexander Villarreal, Ethan Kael Villarreal, and Alexandra’s stepdaughter, Alexa Villarreal—each of whom carried forward his spirit of curiosity, courage, and kindness. While Israel will be missed, we choose to celebrate his life and remember him for his contributions and the ways he showed us to live and enjoy the great gifts we have been given. May he walk in grace, love, and peace…con mucho cariño. SERVICES A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at 12:00pm at Mission Park Funeral Chapels North, with Deacon Joe Lopez officiating. Inurnment will follow at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery, with Marine Corps Honors. For personal acknowledgement, please sign the online guestbook at www.missionparks.com in the Tributes section. MISSION PARK FUNERAL CHAPELS NORTH 3401 CHERRY RIDGE DR. SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS 78230 (210) 349-1414

Tributes

Israel "Kael" Gonzalez

March 18, 1934 - April 15, 2025