Victor Gonzales

Victor M. Gonzales, 77, of Hurley, entered eternal rest on Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2016, at Mountain View Rehabilitation Center in Las Cruces, New Mexico. He was born in Truth of Consequences, New Mexico, on June 20, 1938, to Pedro and Micaela Gonzales. Mr. Gonzales served honorably in the United States Marine Corps. During his tour of duty, he was an artilleryman. His last assignment was with 8-inch Howitzer battery, Force Troops, at Marine Corps Base, 29 Palms, California. Upon completion of his duty, he was awarded the Good Conduct Medal and an honorable discharge. Upon his return to New Mexico, he worked in construction, law enforcement, Santa Fe Railroad and ended his career in Parks and Recreation. He lived life on his own terms and taught his family the importance of a strong work ethic, respect and independence. He was very much a family man who made time to coach, attend games and be the ultimate supporter for his kids. He also enjoyed his many friends. He will long be remembered for his incredible sense of humor. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Ester A. Gonzales; his two sons, Mark Salcedo (Hilda) of Las Cruces, Victor S. Gonzales (Amy) of Alamogordo; his three daughters, Melinda Gonzales of Burke, Virginia, Grace Gonzales of Las Cruces, Sandra Gonzales of Silver City. He is also survived by three grandsons, Victor Stephen Gonzales (Stephanie), Adam Gonzales and Marc Salcedo; four granddaughters, Shannon and Breanna Salcedo, Jerica Quintana (Leo) and Dustee Montoya; his great-grandchildren, Analisa and Enrique Quinteros, Sielo and Adrian Salcedo, Esteven Gonzales, Zayden and Xavien Quintana; three brothers, Ismael Gonzales (Jovita), Eloy Gonzales (Annie) of Bayard, and Pedro Gonzales (Pauline) of Albuquerque; his three sisters, Tomasita Rodriguez of Hurley, Della Rodriguez of Bayard, and Teresa Keys (Walter) of El Paso, Texas; one sister-in-law, Laura Moreno of Phoenix; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Pedro and Micaela Gonzales; his in-laws, Jose and Fannie Arellano; two brothers-in-law, Ruben Rodriguez and Richard Arellano; one nephew, Joey Moreno; and one great-niece, Diana Jaramillo; and his best friend, Juan A. Chip. Visitation will be Sunday, Jan. 31, from 4-5 p.m. at Terrazas Funeral Chapels, with the prayer vigil and holy rosary to begin at 5 p.m., Deacon Art Gutierrez reciting. The funeral liturgy will be celebrated on Monday, Feb. 1, at 10 a.m. at Infant Jesus Shrine, the Rev. Roberto Barreto officiating. Concluding service and interment will follow at Fort Bayard National Cemetery, with full military honors. Pallbearers will be Victor Stephen Gonzales, Adam Gonzales, Marc Salcedo, Craig Gonzales, Peter Gonzales, Roy Martinez, Eric Martinez and Lez Gonzales. Honorary pallbearers are the rest of his family and friends. Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels "Trusted care for the ones you love" ~ 575-537-0777. To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com.