Ronaldo Abel Gomez

McAllen - Ronaldo Abel Gomez, 70, passed peacefully in his home on Saturday, January 9, 2021, with his loved ones by his side. Ron was born on July 1, 1950, to Abelino and Julia Gomez of Pharr. The eldest son of five children, Ron learned the attributes of dedication to family, hard work, and sacrifice from his mother and father early in life as they worked as migrant farmworkers throughout his youth. He would further hone those attributes as he successfully completed an honorable tour with the United States Army where he earned the rank of Specialist prior to his discharge. The skills, discipline, and drive he would obtain eventually led him to join the City of McAllen Fire Department where he dedicated over 25 years of service to promote public safety, community involvement, and mentorship of fellow firefighters. His strong work ethic and family values would see him work two and sometimes three jobs to provide every possible advantage for his family.

After a traumatic motorcycle accident in April 2008 that led to his retirement, he replaced his commitment to work with a new dedication to his grandchildren. He could always be found in the bleachers, or in the stands wearing a proud Grandpa shirt for whatever team he was supporting that day. He also loved delivering food to his grandkids at school or doing anything he could to spend quality time with them. As an amputee, he would not let a disability stop him from doing the things he loved which included golfing, motorcycle riding, gambling, and daily "errands." An active member of the Dragonslayers FF MC, he would continue to ride motorcycles across the United States and build bonds with his brothers that will last an eternity. He will be missed by all and will remain in our hearts. Giddy Up!

He is preceded by his former wife of 15 years, Diane Gomez; his siblings Jose Manuel Gomez, San Juanita Silva, Maria Belinda Gomez; and his parents Abelino and Julia Gomez.

Mr. Gomez is survived by his children, Ronnie J. (Laura) Gomez of McAllen, Anna (Andy Moreno) Gomez of Edinburg, Jennifer (Jay Garcia) Gomez of Mission, and Eric Gomez of Edinburg; seven grandchildren, Tristan Gomez, Ryan Rios, Nick Gomez, Kayleen Rios, Atiana Gomez, Haylee Gomez, and Olivia Garcia; a sister, Julie Ann Gomez of Pharr; a nephew, Mark (Kristi) Gomez who he shared a special bond with; and numerous other nephews, nieces, and cousins who he cherished.

Visitation will be held from 5 to 8 p.m., with a 6 p.m. rosary today, January 12, 2021, at Memorial Funeral Home, 208 E. Canton in Edinburg. Funeral service will take place at 12 noon Wednesday, January 13, 2021, at Memorial Funeral Home Chapel. Military Honors will be conducted by VFW post 8788 of McAllen, and Firefighter Honors by the City of McAllen Fire Department. Interment will follow at Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery in Mission.

Funeral services are under the direction of Memorial Funeral Home in Edinburg.