GILBERT GONZALES
1931-2017
Gilbert Gonzales 86
Our beloved American Hero walked his last earthly steps on August 4,2017, in Madrid, Spain.
Madrid was where Gilbert served during his earlier years in the U S Air Force , and fell in love with the city . He set a goal to one day live his dream retirement in Madrid , and for 25 years Gil was living his dream .
A native Houstonian , born march 2,1931 to parents Consuelo Almaguer Gonzales and Mariano Gonzales .
Gil as he was affectionately known , was very proud that he was the first member in his family to graduate from Sam Houston H S .
On May 16,1951 , Gil was inducted in to the U S Army , where he served a tour in Korea and Vietnam. Reenlisting this time with US Air Force , where he would remain until his retirement on march 31,1972. During his military career Gil received many Army and Air Force commendations. To name a few : like the Korean Svc Medal , Vietnam Svc Medal ,4 Bronze stars , United Nations Svc Medal , several Good Conduct Medals , Medals for Heroism , Meritorious Achievements, and Meritorious Service .
After Gil’s retirement from the military, he would take a position with the Supreme Courts of Colorado in Denver . Gil carried his leadership skills and his impeccable organization skills, to his new position. He was responsible in implementing procedures and protocols that continue to this day in keeping the court system running smoothly and efficiently. His ability to handle any situation on a professional level gained respect from all those who had the pleasure of knowing and working with Gil . After his retirement with the Supreme Courts of Colorado, he made the move to Madrid ,to live his ultimate dream of being retired in a city he loved. Although he lived there he always made it back home to Houston and Denver to visit with family and friends .
Gil will be missed by all who had the chance to share a moment or two with him. He never met a stranger, and loved showing off his perfect Spanish when he could . His laughter was like thunder, his smile was so bright that you felt the warmth of his soul . His compassion and love for family and friends was unparalleled and will never be forgotten.
He leaves to mourn his passing , sisters , Erminia Lobo , Mary Lou Garcia ( Leonel ) , sister in-law Rachel Gonzales , brother David B. Wagoner. Dear friends , Donna & Sam Medina , walking buddy ,Tana . Along with a host of family & friends .
The family of Gilbert Gonzales , wishes to thank the American Embassy in Madrid Spain , for their Assistance during our time of need . We would like to acknowledge Gil’s walking buddy and friend , Atanasio “Tana “Sanchez Serrano for his devotion in assisting us every step of the way . He never left our side , Tana was a tremendous comfort . God certainly favored our family throughout this journey and for this , we give thanks .
Graveside service to be held on Friday August 25,2017 @ Houston National Cemetery at 1:00 PM . Car line up will begin @ 12:45 PM in lane (1) one. Reception to follow .