Eric Matthew “Matt” Gonzalez, 48, of Raleigh North Carolina and Sacramento California lost his battle to Stage 4 cancer on July 21st, 2025. He was Born May 23rd, 1977, in Raleigh North Carolina, to his parents James Gonzalez and Cathel Gonzalez.

Matt lived many lives during his time with us, in his youth he was passionate about and competed in Taekwondo earning his black belt while attending tournaments across the East Coast. He was an avid Snowboarder and a truly gifted Bartender. He was a very charitable person and was always trying to offer help to those he cared about. He had an infectious laugh and could captivate a room with his charm, quick wit, and genuinely hilarious anecdotes. Matt loved going to baseball and football games and was an avid fan of the San Francisco Giants and 49ers. He loved Bluegrass music and Rye Whiskey.

He made a lasting impression on those who he encountered by being a reliable and caring person. Matt was a “Knight” in the St. Baldrick’s foundation which benefitted Childhood Cancer Research. Over 8 years, over $250,000 was raised by the team he was a captain of which would shave their heads annually in solidarity with children suffering from Cancer.

Matt found his true love in his wife Michele Lee Gonzalez. They were married December 17th, 2023. She was with him through the largest challenge of his life in the form of cancer when he was diagnosed November 2022. She consistently provided the much-needed care that his Cancer forced upon him and made his life much more fulfilled. They enjoyed travelling together, seeing live music and eating great meals (with absolutely, NO onions.). The two were together through thick and thin and they each grew immensely from each other’s love.

Matt was an exceptional friend, a loving husband, and a dutiful son. He often showed those around him the meaning of loyalty and had a driving work-ethic. He was always trying to do the right thing and made it clear in his actions daily. For these reasons he was loved by nearly everyone whom he engaged with. Matt may be no longer with us, but he leaves behind so many people whose life he affected for the positive. He would always make time for anyone who was in need and was a true force for those he loved.

Matt is Survived by his Wife, Michele Gonzalez in Sacramento and his mother Cathel Reed, and his sister Erin Marquart in Spring Hope, North Carolina.

Though his absence leaves an immeasurable void, his love, laughter and example will echo through time in those who loved and were loved by him.

                                                                                            “LONG LIVE MGZ”

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