Luis's obituary
It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of a cherished man, Luis "Pony" Gonzales. Known to many simply as "Pony," Luis departed from this world on April 13, 2024. He was born on July 25, 1953, to the late Luis Gonzales Sr. and Adelina Gonzales.
Luis will be deeply missed by his beloved wife, Lorraine Gonzales, whom he wed in 1983. Their enduring love shines brightly in their daughters Lorenza Odom and Adelina Barela, stepchildren Maria Delgado and Pedro Avalos, and sons-in-law Joshua Odom and Andy Barela. The joy of his life extended to his grandchildren: Desirae Somers, Alexis Chastain, Kristopher Odom, Elaine Barela, Mia Barela, AngelaJo Barela, and all of whom will carry his legacy forward.
Proudly graduating from Mayfield High School in 1972, Luis was a hardworking man who had a passion for working on cars. A veteran, Luis served with distinction in the Marines and later retired from the Army National Guard 642nd, showing his unwavering commitment to his nation. He concluded his professional journey in 2011 while always remaining active and industrious within his community and family life.
Luis was known for his love of food, particularly Gorditas, Tacos, Green Enchiladas, and Fajitas, coupled with his preference for Pepsi and Coors Original. His passions extended to music, where he enjoyed Oldies but Goodies, and television, where he often watched shows such as Gun Smoke and The Andy Griffith Show. He was an avid supporter of his alma mater's football team, Mayfield High School, and was always eager to cheer on any team that brought him luck during the Super Bowl. He had a fondness for playing pool and cherished the color blue.
His personality can be best described as caring, loving, funny, and hardworking—an ethos encapsulated by his favorite saying: "Treat others how you would like to be treated." His generosity, remarkable stories, humorous jokes, and sayings will live on in the hearts of all those who knew him. The happiness that Luis derived from being surrounded by his family and friends was palpable and will continue to resonate with all who knew him.
His life was filled with notable accomplishments, but his greatest achievement was the love and joy he cultivated within his family. His legacy of love, laughter, and generosity will continue to shine brightly in the lives of his loved ones. Though Luis has departed from this earthly existence, his spirit continues to illuminate the hearts of those he left behind.