Antonio Gonzales

Antonio (Tony) Gonzales

November 25,1948 - April 23,2021

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Antonio Gonzales age 72, who passed away peacefully on April 23,2021 at his home in Bakersfield, California with wife Irene by his side.

Antonio was born on November 25,1948 in Arvin, California and lived in Lamont, California till the age of 12. His parents later moved to Bakersfield where he was raised and attended school for the remainder of his childhood. He graduated from East Bakersfield High School in 1967.He then joined the United States Army. After his completion of service with the U.S Army he returned home and worked shortly for a trucking company hauling potatoes, until he found his calling at Union Pacific Railroads where he dedicated 38 years of life. He retired in 2009 and resided in Bakersfield with his wife of 18 years Irene Gonzales.

He will forever be remembered for his compassion, and willingness to help others. His special work skills included electrician, automobile mechanic, and carpentry. Any time you had a project to do, you could ask him for advice, he knew how to fix it all. His knowledge was impressive, and he was always ready to teach and help his family and friends. He had a passion for gardening, collecting train photos and woodwork. His leisure time was spent camping by the beach, long road trips in his truck with his wife snuggled up right by his side, riding the sand dunes at Oceano beach in his truck or on a quad. He treasured time spent with family for holidays, vacations and phone conversations. He was a follower of Christ and attended Sunday worship service at Bread of Life Fellowship lead by his bother-in-law Pastor John Pimienta and his sister Dolores G. Pimienta. He married his wife of 18 years Irene Gonzales in 2003. They lived in Bakersfield. Their love story began 21 years ago and from the moment they met, they knew it would be forever. “Love at first sight”, she recalls. She always knew how much he loved her and would do anything in this world to keep her happy. Sharing a life of love and commitment with a beautiful marriage founded on their vows to love each other, in sickness and health, to love and cherish, till death do them part. We will carry you in our hearts forever and your memory will live on. Our family chain is broken, and nothing seems the same, but as God calls us one by one, the chain will link again. We love you, Tony.

Antonio is survived by his wife Irene Gonzales, son Joe Gonzales and wife Tina, son Eleno Gonzales and wife Toni, 14 Grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. Sister Dolores G.Pimienta and husband John, brother Joe Gonzales and wife Lupe, 2 nieces and a nephew. He will be greatly missed and he holds a special place in the hearts of all who loved him. Antonio was preceded in death by his father Ismael E. Gonzales, mother Apolonia Gonzales, sister Amelia G. Marmolejo and brother-in-law Lawrence Marmolejo

Funeral services will be held at Hillcrest Memorial Park 9101, Kern Canyon Rd, in Bakersfield.

Visitation is scheduled for Thursday May 20,2021 2:00 pm - 4:00pm. A Celebration of Life service is scheduled for Friday May 21,2021 11:00am -1:00pm officiated by Pastor John Pimienta, followed by graveside services with full Military Honors being provided by Kern County Associated Veterans.

The family would like to ask that everyone practice social distancing, and avoid physical contact. There will be a maximum of 150 people allowed to enter chapel services, no limit at graveside. Masks will be required. Thank you for your understanding and support during this difficult time.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hillcrestmemorial.com for the Gonzales family.