Eloy Lorence Gonzales

Eloy L. Gonzales met the Lord with his trademark grin and servant's heart as he peacefully passed at his home in Albuquerque, NM on October 23, 2021.

Lovingly known as "Paca" to his grandchildren, Eloy was born in Wagon Mound, NM on May 8, 1933, to Josephine Valdez and Lee A. Gonzales. One of four children, he was raised in Santa Fe, NM to work hard and love the Lord.

Eloy would say his greatest accomplishment was marrying the love of his life Stella Lopez (aka Honey) in 1958. Together they raised two daughters: Camilla Pfeifer and Carla Westervelt; have four grandchildren Celina Espinoza, Michael Westervelt, Richard Pfeifer, and James Pfeifer and four great-grandchildren Payson and Ryan Westervelt, Cruz Espinoza, and Dean Pfeifer. Paca hid love notes for Honey in the microwave until the day he died.

A Marine Corps, Korean War Veteran, Eloy continued to serve his country following an honorary discharge as Staff Sergeant. With a bachelor's degree, he retired from the Department of Energy. Eloy was fundamental in fighting for equality. As President of the 8002 Albuquerque LULAC chapter, one of the first members of the National Board of Directors for the LULAC Foundation, and former State Director he focused on improving employment, job training, housing, education, and economic development opportunities for the underprivileged. He was also influential in establishing Hispanic Heritage Day at the New Mexico State Fair. Eloy served as a member of the Albuquerque Jobs for Progress committee, Director of SER in Albuquerque and was the Chairman of the Board for Proyecto Bienvenido Albuquerque Housing Project. He was awarded a congressional certificate of Merit for these efforts.

Attendees of the Spanish Mass at the Shrine of St. Bernadette would tell you he had "the voice of an angel" as a member of the Spanish choir, a lector and eucharistic minister.

He made friends wherever he went, especially at Garcia's restaurant, and gifted the most beautiful New Mexico sunsets to those closest to him. His family will remember his lead foot, quick wit, loving encouragement, determination, and selfless love.

A Catholic rosary will be held at 9:30 a.m. at the Shrine of St. Bernadette (11509 Indian School Rd NE) followed by a memorial mass and celebration of life at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 3, 2021.