Jose "Chema" Maria Gonzalez

Born in Kingsville, Texas, on December 31, 1933, Jose—known to many as Joe—was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Irma Cerna Gonzalez, and by his children Linda Garcia (Jerry), Joe Jr., David, Orlando (Tamara), Yvonne Morin (Raymond), Irma, and Johnny (Erica). He was lovingly known as Popo to his grandchildren—Jerry Jr. Garcia (Yvette), Jackie Perez (Roger), Ciara Vasquez (Joe), Chelsea Avila (Brian), Jonathan Gonzalez, Jacob Gonzalez, Aaron Gomez, and Matthew Gonzalez. He was also blessed with seven great-grandchildren: Noah Garcia, Peyton Vasquez, Adalyn Vasquez, Ava Perez, Ian Perez, Mia Perez, and Aries Avila.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Jesus P. Gonzalez and Cleotilde Canamar, and by his siblings Olivia Ochoa, Estella, Andres, Alicia Perez, Ernesto, Julia Barron, Pedro. He is survived by his sister, Elvira Vela.

A proud U.S. Army veteran, Joe served during the Korean War. Following his military service, he attended Texas A&I University in Kingsville. He went on to build a long and dedicated career with the U.S. Postal Service, retiring after 32 years. Never one to sit still, he later enjoyed a second career with O’Reilly Auto Parts, where he worked for 15 more years.

Joe had a gift for fixing things and was always ready to lend a hand with projects around the house. He was the life of every gathering—he loved BBQs, family celebrations, and any chance to bring people together. He coached Little League Baseball for several years and enjoyed bowling, bike riding, and shooting pool. Some of his favorite pastimes included watching baseball, boxing, and current events. Joe loved to dance and was known for his entertaining stories, wise and humorous sayings.

Visitation will be held at Funeraria Del Angel, 4901 Everhart Road, Corpus Christi, TX 78411, on January 20, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm. The Recitation of the Holy Rosary will take place at the same location from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Live Stream services will be available on the "Cage Mills Funeral Home" Facebook Page.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Most Precious Blood Catholic Church, 3502 Saratoga Blvd., Corpus Christi, TX 78415, on January 21, 2026, from 10:30 am to 11:30 am. Pallbearers will be Jerry Garcia Jr, Jonathan Gonzalez, Jacob Gonzalez, Aaron Gomez, Roger Perez, and Joe Vasquez. Joe and Irma were longtime parishioners of Most Precious Blood Catholic Church.

The Burial will follow at Santa Gertrudis Memorial Cemetery, 835 W Caesar Ave, Kingsville, TX 78363, where military honors will be rendered.