Jose Gonzalez, 74, passed away on May 21, 2018. He is survived by his loving wife Dolores, with whom he spent over 30 happy years, and her two children Alex Hernandez and Jose Hernandez and also by his three children, Danette Gonzalez, Maria (Anthony) Terryn and Jose (Brenda) Gonzalez. Brother Alberto (Miriam) Gonzalez of Caracas, Venezuela, sisters; Isabel (Chiche-deceased) Gutierrez of Coro, Venezuela, Vivian (Miguel-deceased) Gonzalez and Marina Gonzalez (Francisco Burgos) of Valencia , Venezuela. Many loving nieces, nephews and other relatives.
His Grandchildren include Andrea Bevis, Serenity Hernandez, Meghan McNeely, (Rex Young) and Morgan McNeely), Garrett and Mason Terryn, Kristin Van Zandt (Jeffrey) and Allyson Gonzalez. He was preceded in death by his grandson, Zane Terryn.
Born in Valencia, Venezuela, Jose moved to the United States as a young man in the early 1960's. He endeavored to study engineering, and subsequently enjoyed a career as an electronics engineer for over 50 rewarding years.
It is difficult to say what Jose will be missed for the most. Certainly he will be remembered for his love of family - he had a generous spirit, never hesitating to share what seemed to be a limitless wealth of knowledge and skills. He enjoyed the challenge of a good game of golf. He whistled original melodies, and often sang cleverly bastardized songs - mostly in an English-Spanish "lingo-combo". He enjoyed amusing others, and never failed to do so - he had a special wit and a wonderful sense of humor. He preferred cats to dogs, succinctly stating, "Dogs Stink;" moreover, he was suspicious of the judgment of those who disliked cats - although he forgave that "character flaw" of his lovely wife. He loved photography - always the "Picture Taker" - pictures taken far outnumber those he is in. He enjoyed cooking, especially for the holidays and other special occasions, often including favorites from his childhood in Venezuela. Jose saw the beauty in useful things - a well tuned engine, a meticulously maintained appliance, a carpentry project. He was fascinated by the natural world, especially the Autumn leaves of Pennsylvania. History, politics, old westerns - all favorites. Jose was loved, and we will cherish our memories of him.
The funeral service will be held on Sunday, May 27th, at 3:00pm, at Fountainhead Funeral Home, Palm Bay, Florida. Following the service, we will gather for a reception at the Ted Whitlock Community Center, in the Palm Bay Regional Park.
