Tomas Gonzales

Mrs. Elisa Gonzales and family sadly announce the passing of their patriarch, Tomas V. Gonzales. Mr. Gonzales, age 86, passed Sunday, May 7, 2023. He was surrounded by his family that gathered to bid him farewell.

Tomas was born on Thursday, May 6, 1937 to Beatrice and Rita Gonzales on the Gonzales Ranch close to Villanueva, NM. He is survived by his wife of sixty- six years, Elisa, their children, Ramona Chavez, Angie Duran and partner, Andrew, Rita Cordova, Rachel and husband, Steve Gutierrez, Tommy and wife,Jennifer Gonzales; brothers, Johnny Gonzales and wife Ida, Don Gonzales; sons- in-law, Paul Tafoya and Ronnie Duran Sr. Tomas also leaves behind 12 grandchildren, 25 great- grandchildren, and many nephews, nieces, other family members and friends.

Tomas was preceded in death by his brothers, Matias and Alfredo Gonzales; sisters, Tina Smith and Margie Gonzales; a daughter, Eileen Tafoya; a grandson, Joseph Duran and a great- granddaughter, Carleas Duran.

Tomas was an avid fisherman and enjoyed spending time outdoors. In his spare time, he also coached many softball and baseball teams throughout his years, bringing home many trophies and applause. In fact, Tomas followed all the athletes from New Mexico who made it into the professional ranks. He was a long- time Dodger fan however, switched to the Astros when Bregman was drafted by them. Tomas was flown to Texas by his son Tommy and Jennifer Gonzales to watch the Astros play as a birthday gift when he turned 86.

Tomas worked as a mechanic for Rich Ford and the City of Albuquerque and finally retired. While he was still active, Tomas used his skills to restore a 1952 Chevrolet truck. The truck driven by Tomas, incidentally, was featured in the movie, " The Man Who Fell to Earth," a fitting accomplishment for a good man loved by all.

A Rosary will be recited by Santiago Montoya at 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 31, 2023, at the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church at 9502 Fourth Street NW Albuquerque, NM 87114. Catholic Mass will be celebrated immediately following the rosary, beginning at 9:00 a.m. Inurnment will follow at Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery.

The family would like to thank the staff at the University of New Mexico Hospital for the great care rendered to our beloved Tomas during a very difficult time. Tomas' spirit, however, will always be with us.