Arthur A. Gonzalez

Arthur A. Gonzalez 1930 - 2009 We say good bye, in loving memory, to Arthur A. Gonzalez, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, father-in-law, uncle, and friend in Christ. Art passed gently into the arms of Jesus on November 24, surrounded by those he dearly loved. Art lived his life for Jesus and was best known for his faithful phrase "Praise Jesus!" He wasn't a perfect man but he served and obeyed his perfect Lord. Art was born in Calexico, California on February 18, 1930. He grew up in McFarland and served his country in the Korean War. He married Eleanor, the love of his life, on February 7, 1953 and cherished her for 56 years. They had five children, daughters, Kathryn, Carmen, twins Annette and Nannette and son, Art, and resided in Bakersfield their entire married lives. Their daughter, Carmen, went to be with Jesus 14 years ago and is now reunited with her daddy. Art was blessed with 12 grandchildren to love and spoil, which he enjoyed doing quite often, from giving gas money to Chelsey to ice cream money for Sophia, Emma and Lillie. Art had a unique and loving way of encouraging everyone he met to seek Jesus. He would often ask strangers he met if they read the Bible, then kindly informed them of the fact that spiritual food was just as necessary as physical food. Art was loved by many and will be missed by many, including his church family at Valley Bible Fellowship and the Prime Timers. Arthur A. Gonzalez is presently rejoicing in Heaven with His Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, but his earthly remains will be laid to rest at Greenlawn Cemetery, on Thursday, December 3. A Celebration Service will be held at Valley Bible Fellowship, 2300 Brundage Lane at 12:30 p.m., Thursday, December 3 in the main sanctuary, followed by a lunch reception. Art's entire family would like to express heartfelt gratitude and praise for the wonderful care given by Hoffmann Hospice. Their gracious care was so lovely as we said our last good byes to our beloved Art. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that all gifts go to ROCK Ministries (Romania Outreach to Christ's Kids). Art's daughter Nannette is founder of ROCK, a ministry that reunites abandoned children with foster families. Gifts may be sent to ROCK Ministries, P.O. Box 1651, Rialto, CA, 92377.