Guadalupe V. Gonzalez

Guadalupe V. Gonzalez, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on July 7, 2025, in his home in Kingsville, Texas, surrounded by his loved ones. Born on March 12, 1936, in Kingsville, Guadalupe lived a life rich with character and dedication, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.

In his early years, Guadalupe worked as a cab driver and honed his skills as a glass installer at Safety Glass Company. He later took on the role of a truck driver for Dr. Pepper and subsequently with South Texas Material. Before his retirement, he was known affectionately as the “Sandman” while driving trailers for Berry Ltd. Crafting a legacy as a dedicated worker, he took immense pride in teaching both of his sons to become truck drivers, continuing the tradition of hard work that he valued so much.

Outside of his professional accomplishments, Guadalupe found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was an avid fisherman and gardener, with the patience to nurture both plants and fish alike. Baking, listening to music, and playing his guitar brought him joy, while family gatherings were the highlight of his life. Surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, he cherished these moments, often enjoying his favorite coffee and sweet bread during these gatherings.

Guadalupe was married to the love of his life, Oralia G. Gonzalez, for an incredible 65 years, having wed on August 9, 1959. Together, they cultivated a family that would enrich their lives and create cherished memories, particularly during family gatherings where joy and laughter were abundant.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Oralia; daughters Linda (Neto) Cruz, Rosie (Joe) Ramos, Lilly (Willie Jr.) Medrano, and Stephanie (Ernest) Garza; sons Guadalupe Gonzalez Jr. and Roy Gonzalez; his sister Dalia Vela; and his brother George Gonzalez Sr. Guadalupe also leaves behind a legacy of love through his 15 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren, who will carry his memory forward.

Guadalupe is preceded in death by his parents, Gregorio and Leonor Gonzalez, and his siblings: brothers, Jesus Gonzalez, Rafael Gonzalez, Gregorio Gonzalez Jr., Ricardo Gonzalez, and Juan Jose Gonzalez; and sisters Manuela Gonzales, Lupe Solis, Anita Garcia, and Leonor Hernandez.

His family invites friends and loved ones to a visitation on July 10, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Turcotte-Piper Mortuary in Kingsville, followed by a Rosary at 7:00 PM. A Mass celebrating his life will take place on July 11, 2025, at St. Martin Catholic Church at 10:00 AM, with interment following at Santa Gertrudis Cemetery at 11:15 AM.

Guadalupe V. Gonzalez will be missed deeply by all who had the privilege of knowing him, and his legacy of love, hard work, and devotion to family will continue to inspire those left behind.