Fred Gonzales

Jose (Fred) Gonzales, loving Husband, Father, Grandfather, Brother, Uncle, Cousin and Friend to many, passed to his spiritual life at home surrounded by family on August 26, 2021.  Fred was born in San Mateo, NM on November 26, 1947 to Mary and Santiago Gonzales.  He attended Grants High School and then joined the Air Force in February 1967. He was stationed in Japan, all over the Far East and served in the Vietnam war. He set up communication systems for the military and upon returning from the Far East he was at Kennedy Space center where he set up communication systems for astronauts for their flights to the moon.

Fred started his career at United Nuclear and moved to Santa Fe Coal/Lee Ranch Mine as warehouse supervisor for the company retiring after 28 years.  Co-workers describe Fred as a “good man”, “the best boss” and “a leader like no other”.

Fred was a lifelong member of St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Community. Fred was a devoted husband, father and grandfather He enjoyed sharing his passions of fishing, hunting, and hiking with them. His grandchildren have such special memories of him and their time together! They remember his time and the gifts he always had for them.  To say that Fred was proud of his wife, daughters, and grandchildren is definitely an understatement!

Fred is survived by his wife of 49 years, Vicki, and 3 children, Jolene, Jaime and Jessica (deceased).  Son-in-laws David Buoniconti and Scott Lavit. 8 Grandchildren, Andre, Davon, Alyssa, Ashton, Adason, Peyton, Presley & Paxton.  15 brothers and sisters Tony, Rosita, Dorella, Jimmy, Merlinda, Flora, Angela, Marie Hilda, Albert, Abe, MaryEllen (deceased), David, Edwardo, Emily, and Claire. Since Fred was from such a large family, he knew the value and the importance of “family” and was always willing and able to help others as well as devote his attention to his wife, daughters, and grandchildren.

Viewing, Rosary and Funeral Mass will be on Friday, September 3, starting at 9:15 am, at St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Church in Grants, NM followed by interment at Grants Memorial Park. VFW Post #3221 will provide military honors. A reception will follow at Knights of Columbus Hall.

Pallbearers include: Andre Buoniconti, Davon Jaramillo, Ashton Buoniconti, Justin Moya, David Buoniconti, Scott Lavit.

Honorary Pallbearers include: Tony Gonzales, Albert Gonzales, Santiago "Jimmy" Gonzales, Abe Gonzales, David Gonzales, Edwardo Gonzales, JD Moya, James Gonzales, John Beasley, Jeronimo Salazar, Danny Chavez, Bruce Mascarenas, Leon Hopkins, and Richard Quiononez.

Vicki sends special thanks to UNM Cancer Center and the Veteran’s Fisher House for their care and support to Fred during his illness.

Cope Memorial Chapel is entrusted with arrangements.