Julian L. Gonzalez was born at home in Cementville, TX, on November 29, 1924 to Julian and Isidra Lopez Gonzalez. He was the first of seven children and a proud first generation American of Mexican descent.
Julian was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Florence, his parents, his siblings and their spouses: Robert and Marina Gonzalez, Alicia and Eliodoro Rivera, Celia and Raymond Rodriguez, Abelardo and Rosie Gonzalez, his brother-in-law, John Witcher, and his son-in-law Juan Sonora.
He is survived by his loving sisters: Josephine Witcher and Olivia and brother-in-law Paul Zavala. He also leaves behind his three devoted daughters: Diane Sonora, Barbara Perez, Julianna and son-in-law Alejo Velez. He was a proud grandfather to six grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, four great-great-grandchildren. He is also remembered fondly by numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and extended family.
Julian graduated from Thomas Edison High School, though he was drafted into the U.S. Army during his senior year. He left school at midterm to serve his country in World War II, stationed in the South Pacific. In a proud and touching moment, his father walked the stage to accept Julian’s diploma on his behalf.
After returning home from WWII Julian began working at Alamo Portland Cement Company, now known as the Quarry. Julian married Florence in December 1953. Committed to lifelong learning, he attended night school at St. Mary’s University and graduated in 1964 with a bachelor’s degree.
Julian, affectionately known as “Popo” by his family, was a passionate storyteller who loved sharing his knowledge of history, faith and family. From the 1920s through 2025, he bore witness to a century of transformation, embracing both life’s challenges and its joys with wisdom and strength.
He leaves behind a legacy of service, love and stories that will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
On Wednesday, April 23rd visitation will begin at 6 p.m. at Porter Loring Mortuary, 2102 N Loop 1604 E, San Antonio, TX 78232. A Rosary will be held at 7:00 p.m. The funeral procession will depart Porter Loring on Thursday morning, April 24 at 9:15 a.m. followed by a Funeral Mass at 10 a.m. at St. Anthony de Padua Catholic Church, 102 Lorenz Rd, San Antonio, TX 78209. The funeral procession will then follow, and Julian will be laid to rest with military honors at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.
