On Wednesday, May 13, 2020 at 5:30 pm, we sadly said goodbye to my father, Jesse Gonzales. He was a great patriot, a great husband/ father, and a great family man. He was born in Port Arthur, Texas on March 28, 1926 to Antonio and Consuelo Gonzales. He grew up in Port Arthur with 4 brothers and sisters, Alicia, Alfred, Sapopa, and Tony, all of which preceded him to heaven. At the age of 17, Jesse enlisted in the Navy. He served in the Pacific during WW2. He later re-enlisted, but this time in the Army. He served 3 tours of duty in Vietnam. He was one of the original Green Berets, where he was decorated with 1 Silver Star, 2 Bronze Stars, and 2 Commendations of Valor. Jesse married Gracia Rojo, also of Port Arthur, on May 13, 1961. They had one child, Ron Gonzales in 1964. Jesse retired from the military after 27years and made his life in Port Arthur. He spent the next 25 years working for the USPS. After retirement from the USPS, he became one of the founding members of the Veterans Memorial Park, where he spent countless hours helping to create a memorial for his comrades of arms. He lived his last 7 years with Ron Gonzales in Flower Mound, Texas enjoying his time with his grandchildren & great grandchildren.
He is survived by his son, Ron & Francine Gonzales, grandchildren, Cameron & Anna Gonzales, Bronc & Erin Rice, Madison Gonzales, and 3 great grandchildren, Ryder & Riley Rice, and Jameson Gonzales.
Services will be in Port Arthur, Texas at Clayton Thompson Funeral Home. Visitation is on Friday, May 22, 2020 from 6-8 pm, and Graveside Services on Saturday May 23, 2020 at 10 am.
In light of COVID-19 health concerns, do not hesitate to wear protective masks and/or gloves if you elect to come to the services.