George Martinez Gonzales

It is with great sadness that the family of George Martinez Gonzales announces his passing on Wednesday, August 29, 2018, at the age of 75 years. He was born March 1, 1943 in Houston, Texas to Eleanor Martinez and Jorge Pena. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 50 years, Donna, and his children Tiffany and her spouse Ismael “Mike” Vela, Jr., Crystal and her spouse Jason Eisner, and his four grandchildren Madeline Marie, Ismael “Trey”, III, Georgia Leigh, Liliana Rose, his sister Alice Gonzales and his brother Richard (Jane) Gonzales. He leaves behind his other brothers Fernando (Virginia) Gonzales, Phillip (Liz) Gonzales, Adrian Gonzales, and numerous family, friends, nieces, nephews, neighbors, and extended family. He is predeceased by his mother and father who are welcoming him to heaven to celebrate their meeting again.

George served four years with distinction as a Marine in Vietnam, and earned the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and Rifle Sharpshooter Badge. The discipline and patriotism he learned in the Marines never left him, as friends and family will attest.

George was active in both his church and the community, and was especially proud of his contribution to helping start the movement to keep the East End of Houston alive and vibrant. His work with The Metropolitan Organization (TMO), as the co-chair of the city’s successful $595 million capital improvement bond election in September 1984, was a win for the Hispanic community in the East End Houston. He continuously said and believed that the neighbors of the East End wanted to spend their hard earned money in their community. In the past year as he looked around, he was proud of the developments and businesses he saw all along Harrisburg, Navigation, and Canal.

But most of all, he loved working outside in the yard. George could always be found working in the yard, tending to his garden, trees, and doing different projects that enhanced his yard. He took great pride in all his trees (named after all his grandchildren), and the collection of yard ornaments he collected over the years. Even as his health declined, he spent a lot of his time in the yard.

Finally, thank you to all the family, Compadres, and neighbors that loved and supported George and Donna. Your love and kindness is greatly appreciated.

A rosary will be recited Friday, September 14th, at 7:00 p.m., and a Holy Mass will be held Saturday, September 15th at 10:00 a.m.