Al Gonzalez

On August 15, 2023, our hearts were filled with both sorrow as we bid farewell to a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and great great grandfather. Al, who was not only a source of inspiration but also a devout follower of his Catholic faith. Alfredo Deleon Gonzalez (Al) was born April 17, 1937. Al grew up in San Benito, Texas where he worked in the cotton fields and later as a truck driver. He later moved to Roby, Texas where he would meet his lifelong bride, Marcie. They shared 63 beautiful years together, traveling and creating many memories during their retirement.

Faced with the responsibility of providing for his parents during his youth, he set aside his dreams of competing in his school track events. Although he missed out on the thrill of those races, his unwavering commitment to his loved ones became his life's true race. With a heart full of love, Al drove thousands of miles to ensure that his family had every opportunity to flourish. His sacrifices were a testament to his dedication as he navigated the hardships of life with a quiet strength. As a father, he gave selflessly, shaping the lives of his children through his love, wisdom, and unyielding support.

As the years went by, life granted Al a second chance to embrace the passion he had set aside in his younger years for his family. In his golden years, he discovered a new chapter in his life, one that was as unexpected as it was exhilarating. With the spirit of a true competitor, he ventured onto the track once again, not as a young schoolboy, but as a grandfather ready to prove that age was no barrier to pursuing dreams.

With each race, he defied the age of limitation, racking up numerous medals and leaving an amazing legacy. His dedication to the sport resulted in many astonishing moments. The most memorable one is when he shattered a long-standing record in the sprint relay at the Senior National Games, proving that age has no boundaries. The record-breaking victory was a testament to his relentless spirit, inspiring all of us who got to witness his great accomplishments, regardless of age or the hardships we endure in life.

However, as much as he loved the thrill of the race, Al held an even greater passion in his heart – his love for his grandchildren and great grandchildren. His eyes would light up with joy and pride whenever he was with them. Whether it was cheering them on from the stands of their football games or sharing all his stories and laughter during family gatherings, his presence was a constant source of warmth and comfort.

His legacy of love, determination, and compassion lives on in the hearts of his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and all those who were fortunate enough to know him. Al may have crossed the finish line of his earthly journey, but his memory will forever remain imprinted in our souls.

He is preceded in death by parents: Mariah and Jose Gonzalez, daughter Norma, grandson Abel Flores, 3 brothers; Israel, Leonel, and Jose Angel Gonzalez, 1 son in law, Roy Cortez.

Survivors are wife, Marcie Gonzalez, Son AL Gonzalez Jr and wife Dianne, Daughter Adela Cortez, Daughter Lucy Garcia and husband Rufino, Son Joe Frank Gonzalez, Daughter Cindy Ramirez and husband Larry, Daughter Patricia Gonzalez, Daughter Margaret Gonzalez. 14 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren.