Ismael Gonzales

Ismael M. Gonzales, 74, of Fort Stockton, Texas, peacefully passed away on the evening of November 23rd, 2021, surrounded by his loved ones in the home he built to raise and enjoy his family.

Ish was born in Fort Stockton, Texas, to Carlos and Basilia Gonzales on April 30th, 1947, and was the baby of 13 children.  He married the love of his life, Alva, on April 14, 1970 by the Justice of the Peace, then celebrated a church wedding November 4th, 1970 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church.  Ish and Alva just celebrated their 51st wedding anniversary.

Ish worked many years at Cunningham's Furniture with a specialty in floor coverings.  He went on to work for The University of Texas Lands as a supervisor where he lead a team to the groundbreaking of the experimental vineyards, which later advanced and turned into St. Genevieve's winery.  After retiring from there, Ish decided to work for Pecos County Precinct 2 where he kept the entire park and swimming pool in tiptop shape for many years and finally completely retired in 2005.

Ish loved his family with all he had, never putting anything or anyone before them.  He was very generous, caring, hardworking, smart and a very funny person to all who crossed his path.  He will be remembered by his infectious laugh, funny stories and mannerisms, and mostly by his loving heart to his friends and family.  All of his grandchildren were his world, as he even helped raise Carly for the past 19 years.

Ish is preceded in death by his parents, Carlos and Basilia Gonzales, two sisters, Licha Dominguez and Elodia Garcia; six brothers, Lalo Gonzales, Antonio Gonzales, Jesse Gonzales, Nachie Gonzales, and Charlie Gonzales.

Ish is survived by his wife, Alva Gonzales; his son, Carl Gilbert Gonzales (Jennifer Amonette); his daughter, MonaLisa Gonzales, and seven cherished grandchildren; Trooper J. Gonzales, Jenna F. Gonzales, Willam S. Gonzales, Jesse M. Gonzales, Turk L. Amonette, Carly B. Gonzales, and Allyana F. Gonzales.

A memorial will be held at Heritage Funeral Home on Saturday, November 27th at 11:00 am, with a rosary beforehand at 10:30 am.

The family of Ismael Gonzales wishes to extend our sincere thanks to Dr. Boinpally and Home Health and Hospice with all their wonderful nurses and their loving care they showed our cherished loved one; Heritage Funeral Home for the utmost care and consideration during this time; Pastor Scott Owens for leading Ish's Memorial Service; Rosie Levitt for leading the Rosary for her Uncle Mel, and lastly, Father Francis for his blessings and home visit.