George Gonzalez Sr.

June 28, 1953 – July 19, 2025

George Gonzalez Sr., a proud U.S. Army Veteran, devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and mentor, went home to be with the Lord on July 19, 2025, at the age of 72. Born in the Bronx, New York, on June 28, 1953, to Camelia Colón and Jorge Gonzalez, George's life was defined by resilience, service, and unwavering strength.

Growing up on the tough streets of the Bronx, George developed a grit and determination that carried him throughout life. Though he initially trained to become a merchant marine in high school, his path led him to the U.S. Army in 1972, near the end of the Vietnam War. Over the next 22 years, George served his country with honor and distinction, rising to the rank of First Sergeant. As a combat engineer and drill sergeant, he played a critical role in shaping the lives of countless soldiers, serving in Germany, Operation Desert Storm in the Persian Gulf.

After retiring from the military in 1994, George settled in Winter Springs, Florida, to be closer to his growing family. That same year, he married the love of his life, Ada, beginning a new chapter filled with shared purpose, laughter, and enduring love. The couple made their home in Deltona, Florida, where George remained deeply committed to service, this time, to his community and church.

In retirement, George embraced his passions with the same dedication he brought to his military service. He became an avid collector of guns, coins, and memorabilia, and spent countless joyful hours at the gun range teaching his children and grandchildren the art of marksmanship. He volunteered as head of security at his church, standing guard every Sunday with pride until shortly before his passing. George also dedicated himself to mentoring youth, from volunteering with his grandchildren’s ROTC programs to guiding elementary school students with kindness and firm wisdom.

George’s heart belonged to his family above all. He is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Ada Gonzalez, and five children: Carmen Gonzalez, Blanca Card, George Gonzalez Jr., Laura Rosado, and Jacqueline Rosado Gadson. He was a proud grandfather to 12 grandchildren and great-grandfather to two. His storytelling was legendary animated tales of his Army days that brought laughter, awe, and inspiration to all who listened. He was also a devoted animal lover, especially to his late dog, Goldie, who brought him years of companionship and joy.

Despite a challenging childhood and the demands of a military life, George was never cruel or unjust. He believed in strength guided by compassion, in discipline paired with love. He held himself and those around him to high standards rooted in faith, family, honesty, and integrity. He was a man who lived what he believed and led with quiet, consistent courage.

George Gonzalez Sr. will be deeply missed by his family, fellow veterans, church community, and the countless lives he touched. He will be remembered always as a mentor, protector, storyteller, and Deltona’s Hometown Hero, a great man in every sense of the word.

The family requests that you wear the color Green to all services for George Gonzalez.

You can view the Memorial Page with the Department of Veterans Affairs here:

https://www.vlm.cem.va.gov/GEORGEGONZALEZ/aa2e87