David Gonzales

David Gonzales, affectionately known as “Yogi,” was born on January 28, 1949, in Merced, California. He passed away peacefully at his home in Merced on October 5, 2025, at the age of 76 surrounded by his loved ones.

Yogi proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy from 1969 until 1971 in the Vietnam War. Following his service, he dedicated his career to the City of Merced, working in the Sanitation Department from 1971 until his retirement in 2007.

He was a proud member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and the VFW Mexican Ancestry of California. David was a loving Husband, Dad, Papa, Uncle, and Friend – with a tough and courageous exterior, known only to be broken down by his loved ones. Along with his love of sports, David enjoyed watching and rooting for the 49ers (Go Niners!) and cemented his legacy as a solid home run hitter on the softball field with the Gonzales Brothers (and with other teams that tried to poach his talents). In his quieter moments, he loved spending time with his family, watching old movies, and listening to music alongside his wife.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Louie and Connie Gonzales, and his stepdaughter, Jenel Kilkeary. He is survived by his wife, Blanca; his brothers, Art “Slim” and Edward “Smack” Gonzales; his children, David Gonzales, April Tinsley, Marian Ismael, Athina Phillips; his step-son, Justin Hamilton; 14 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

Pallbearers will be his son David Gonzales; sons-in-law David “Fatso” Ismael and Wayne Phillips; nephews Eddie Gonzales and Manuel Byrd; and grandson Jonathan Garcia Jr.; Honorary pallbearers are his son-in-law Scott Tinsley and grandson Aiden Phillips.

Visitation will be held on Monday, October 20, 2025 from 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, beginning with a Rosary at 9:30 a.m., Chapel Blessing and Sharing of Memories at 10:00 a.m. at Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home. Graveside service will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Merced.