Jose (Joe) Demetrio Gonzales
Jose (Joe) Demetrio Gonzales, 76, beloved brother, nephew and uncle, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on October 18, 2017. Jose was a devout Catholic, who carried his faith with him as he courageously battled his recent illness. He entered this world on July 3, 1941 in Las Vegas, NM, born to Pedro and Priscilla Gonzales.
Jose graduated from Monte Vista High School and later served his country while in the Navy from 1958 to 1964. He received his bachelor’s degree from Western State College in Gunnison, Colorado and his master’s degree from Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas, paving the way for a 25 year career as a CPA/Appeals Officer with the Internal Revenue Service. After retirement, Jose spent many days doing what he loved most; playing golf with family and friends and experiencing many beautiful and challenging golf courses along the way.
Jose enjoyed spending time with his family, sharing stories, giving advice, and being generous to those he loved. He often shared with others how proud he was of his family. He was a mentor to many and not a day went by without him encouraging and mentioning the importance of furthering your education and pursuing your dreams.
He is survived by his sister, Rosabelle Valenzuela; aunt, Martha Harris; nephews and nieces; Robert Valenzuela, Patricia (Patrick) McDonald, Rebecca (Kevin) Pray, Della (Mike) Wittner and Peter (Amy) Valenzuela; great-nieces and nephews; Christopher, Jaclyn, Stephanie, Joshua, Michael, Jocelyn, Domenique, Tristin, Jacob and Connor; 18 great-great-nieces and nephews and many cousins.
He will be deeply missed by those who loved him. A Rosary will be held on Tuesday, October 24, 2017 at 8:15 a.m. at St. Joseph on the Rio Grande, 5901 St. Joseph’s Dr. NW Albuquerque, NM 87120, with a Mass to follow at 9:00 a.m. The Interment will take place Tuesday, October 24, 2017 at 1:30 p.m. with military honors at Santa Fe National Cemetery, 501 N. Guadalupe St., Santa Fe, NM 87501.
Please visit our online guestbook for Jose’s obituary at
www.frenchfunerals.com