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Tony Gonzales Obituary

TONY TJ'' GONZALES APR 6, 1988 - DEC 28, 2008 Tony Jerald TJ'' Gonzales age 20 of Newman passed away on Sunday, December 28th in Sadr City, Iraq. Mr. Gonzales was a native of San Mateo and was a resident of Newman prior to being deployed to Iraq. He was a member of the New Life Christian Center in Turlock and was active with the Newman Police Explorers. He was in the United States Army since 2006 and received the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star, the Global War on Terrorism Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal and the Combat Action Badge. Mr. Gonzales is survived by his parents, Tony & Marlynn Gonzales of Newman; fiance, Deserae Wakefield of Waterford; sisters, Shaula Grijalva (Tim) of Fort Worth, TX, Tammy Runzel (Matt) of Lemoore, Megan People (Anthony) of Antelope; grandparents, Theresa Gonzales of San Mateo, Donna Grangoff of San Mateo, Jerold Whaley of Sonora, great-grandmother, Julia Wagner of Lake Wildwood, CA; 2 nieces and 1 nephew; numerous aunts and uncles. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Tony Gonzales. A funeral motorcade procession will depart at 12:00 pm from Hillview Funeral Chapel in Newman, Wednesday, January 7th with a Military Honors Graveside Service at 1:00 pm at San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery in Gustine. Remembrances may be made to: TOSCA (The Orestimba Scholarship Community Association) Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 18, Newman, CA 95360. Services conducted by Hillview Funeral Chapel, Newman.www.modbee.com/obituaries

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Published by Modesto Bee on Jan. 7, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Tony Gonzales

Not sure what to say?





Kenneth Williams

August 15, 2019

To a true friend and brother-in-arms, You will forever be missed and loved little brother

Kenneth Williams

August 15, 2019

The World is Less from your Passing, He was a child of happiness and light.

April 12, 2013

This entry is in memory and honor of Tony Gonzales and his service and sacrifice for our country. He will always be remembered from generation to generation.

Chris Cartee

December 29, 2011

You will forever be missed! Honored to have served with you!

Peggy Childers

December 28, 2011

To the family and friends of Spc. Tony J. Gonzales:
Please accept my remembrance of Tony on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.

S. Allen

December 28, 2011

Remembering you especially in this month. Never will you be forgotten. God Bless your family.

August 24, 2011

TJ, You are not forgotten! Thank you for your light!
KMH
Newman ca

April 6, 2011

Hey Buddy, it's April 6th and this would be your 23rd birthday. Not a day goes by that I don't think of you and how much I miss you. I made it through the day but it wasn't easy. I love you and miss you buddy. Love always, Daddio

Peggy Childers

December 28, 2010

To the family and friends of Spc. Tony J. Gonzales:
Remembering Tony on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

December 25, 2010

Hey buddy: It's Christmas day, this is the second Christmas now that you have been gone, taken home by the Lord. I miss you so much that I cannot explain. Your sisters are are all going to be here and on Tuesday there will be a memorial unvieled and dedicated to you here in Newman. Anyway I just wanted to write that I miss you so. Daddio

August 29, 2010

To the Gonzales family:
May the comfort from family and friends continue to strengthen you, and may you find comfort in the words found in the Holy Scriptures: "And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away."

Larry Scott

May 3, 2010

Man i miss you. I remember in Graff how hard we laughed!! And when you crashed the remote conrol plane how hard we laughed i will keep this with me always. Love and miss you lil bro.

Kenna

March 16, 2010

”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to the hero’s Mother, Father and/or spouse. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Almost 2,000 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
This is a gift! We have wonderful sponsors who help with the costs, and want you know that everyone here at Project Compassion does and will always CARE.
Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna

Donna Gillette

December 13, 2009

On this day and with each day that we enjoy our freedom, I would like to give thanks and let you know that I do not take our troops for granted. May you experience God when you feel your loss.

Anita Richards

November 11, 2009

Dear Tony,
Thank you Soldier and our Hero for your sacrifice! You wil never be forgotten!
Remembering you today and always,
Anita & Joel Richards
Proud Parents of SSG Frank Gasper
KIA 5/25/08

Bryan & I (RIP PFC Bryan M. Thomas KIA 23 June 08

Samm Thomas

February 5, 2009

Tony, I finally had it in me to write you! When I found out about your passing, I was like what Tony Gonzales? The football player? Man, I didnt want to accept that you were gone, but I knew they were talking about you. I tryed so hard to think of how you were posed to be here with us, but I am not mad. You are in a better place now. I remember the first time we met. You were in Bryan's barraks and you heard me say "hella" you came up to me and was like "hey you, your from cali arent you?" and I just smiled and said yes. We talked about how there's no place like Cali and Bryan kept trying to say Louisiana was where its at, lol. I believe the last time we talked, we were posed to meet up in Cali one day if I made it back from Germany before you did and we agreed. I never thought that this day would come, but I cannot even start to imagine what GOD has in store for you now. Just rest Tony and welcome to the good life! If you see my hubby up there, let him know that I love him so much and I cant wait to see you all again one day!!

In Loving Memory Of
PFC Bryan M. Thomas
May 18, 1986 to June 23, 2008
Baumholder, Germany (HHC 2/6)
Your Battle, My Husband, Our Hero

Pat LeNorman

February 2, 2009

my heart is broken and my prayers go out to all of the family , Iam Cpl Aaron d Gautier"s grandmother, my son told me of tj i know that our boys are with our lord , and they are are always with us and are true american heroes,all my prayers Pat Le Norman

dan gautier

January 24, 2009

Your son is a True American Hero. I know that there are no words that can be said to take away the pain you are feeling. Just know that your son is always with you and that he will never be forgotton. I lost my only son Aaron in Iraq 1-1/2 years ago. I pray that your pain is tempered knowing that your son is a True American Hero. Dan Gautier

Brianna

January 20, 2009

Every time I hear of a fallen soldier it breaks my heart. I am saddened to hear of Tony's death and I want to extend my deepest sympathies to his his family, & friends. I am so sorry for your loss.

n American Hero

Darlene Smith

January 20, 2009

My son Spc. Christopher Bartkiewicz was serving with Tony in Iraq they were brothers over there my son lost his life on Sept. 30, 2008 my prayers go out to the family of such a fine young man. If there is anything I can do please contact me. No words can take away the pain just know we are there for you if you need anything. God bless you all

Kenna Larra

January 20, 2009

We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families. War does not discriminate – It breaks my heart to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,300 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com. If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely,
Kenna

Karen Bower

January 11, 2009

Tony and Marlynn and family, our hearts absolutely break for y'all! Words don't seem to be very helpful at a very difficult time like this. Just know we love you and are praying a special measure of God's grace and comfort to surround you. Treasure all the memories of your precious son and brother. Sounds like you can be really proud of Tony . . . what a wonderful young man! Allow yourselves plenty of time and space to grieve. Thank you for raising such a fine, young man. He served our country well! We love y'all with all our hearts! Frank and Karen Bower and our Bunch (San Jose)

CHANCELLOR WOLLASTON

January 10, 2009

Tony man I am going to miss you. I remember when we met in Basic, it was the worst time of our life and we got through it togeather. I will pray for you and your family and everyone here will drive on we will finish our mission here in your memory, we have a memorial to you and i look at it everyday. God belss you man and R.I.P.

Jerry & Carol Wachowiak

January 10, 2009

Tony & Marlynn, when we heard about TJ we thought of the day when we met you and TJ. Our boys looked so proud taking the oath when they took the big step. Our deepest sympathies and God Bless.

Stephanie Rafoss

January 9, 2009

Prayer for Peace

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace;
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
Where there is injury, pardon;
Where there is doubt, faith;
Where there is despair, hope;
Where there is darkness, light;
And where there is sadness, joy.

O Divine Master,
Grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console;
To be understood, as to understand;
To be loved, as to love;
For it is in giving that we receive,
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.

Amen

Gini Weiss

January 8, 2009

To the Gonzales family,
I attend New Life and was saddened to hear of TJ's passing. I too have lost a son.....there is no greater pain. May comfort and peace surround you in the days ahead.
Gini

Elizabeth Lombardo

January 8, 2009

To the Gonzales Family,
I`m your cousin you never met. Theresa Gonzales is my first cousin. All the cousins back here send our love and sympathy.

John & Mary Curreri

January 8, 2009

We attend New Life Community Church in Turlock & have never met you, we pray for your family that God will be with them and give them comfort. John 3:16 Thank God for men like you protecting our country.

Lynn Stahlberger

January 8, 2009

No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve. May time ease the pain in your hearts.

South Bay Blue Star Moms

Frank & Janet Candlish

January 8, 2009

Our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Spec. TJ Gonzales. We thank him and you for service and sacrifce. Because your sacrifice our children and grandchildren can sleep safely at night, go to school, and play without the dangers that were thrown on us on 9-11. Our prays and love to you. God bless!

Dolores Mello

January 8, 2009

My sincerest condolences for your loss. I thank you for Tony's dedication, bravery and service to his country. I lost my cousin SSG Frank Gasper on Memorial Day 2008 in Al Najaf, Iraq. Neither words nor time ease the pain, but take comfort in knowing Tony is at peace. May you find solace in your loving memories and realize that his spirit will never leave you.

Lori Pasco

January 7, 2009

To Marlynn and the members of TJ's family. We are so saddened by the loss of your brave son. I know you were so proud of him for all of his accomplishments and service. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you. If you ever need anything, do not hesitate to ask, we are here for you.

Jody Sparks

January 7, 2009

To the Gonzales Family,
My deepest sympathy to all of you in "TJ"'s family. I never forget that we are "at war" still and our young men and women are dying to keep us safe. It seems at times people get lazy about remembering that fact.
My heart breaks for you in the loss of your son, as I truly understand how you feel. My young 19yr. old son and his good friend were killed 7/1/06 on Hwy 99 in a car accident. Losing a child, no matter what the situation, is horrible.
I have my strong faith to carry me through the days and nights, but I won't tell you its been easy, or that its gotten any easier, because its very hard.....but with all God's grace and the Angels holding onto me, I've made it another day.......and you will too !
Your son was so very brave and I thank him and you for the price that has been paid, and I never forget our fallen heroes who are in heaven's holy army now.
I hope you can find peace in the memories you have of TJ.
God Bless you and keep you.

Cindy Spinelli

January 7, 2009

Our sincerest and deepest sympathy to the Gonzales Family during this most difficult time of sorrow and need. Your son, Specialist Tony Gonzales, Our American Hero, and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.

Gene, Cindy, Denee, Kirk, Mark and Kara Spinelli
Son Mark currently in USAF

Gary Allain

January 7, 2009

Spc. Tony J. Gonzales
you are my hero
may god keep you in his arms forever.

Kim Kemper

January 7, 2009

My heart goes out to all of you. I do remember your son. I worked with Shaula at Perko's and remember all of you coming in. You all are wonderful people and your son was so sweet. Please know that your family is my prayers and in my thoughts daily. I am so sorry for your loss.

Anthony& irene lopez

January 7, 2009

Dear gonzales family my heart was saddened to hear about your loss,i didn,t know your son ,but i have a grandson in the army who will go back again to iraq, our prayers and thoughts are with you. your son was very much a Hero and may he rest in peace. The Lopez Family

rosa letona

January 7, 2009

my heart and prayers are with you all. God give you peace and strength.

Dan Steckman

January 7, 2009

There is no greater Gift, than for a man to Lay Down his Life, for another. Your Son has done that for so many. To say Thank you would only begin to scratch the surface of what your son and the so many others like him have done, who have given all they have to give to all of us.
I know that there are people who do not believe in the mission, whether you believe in the mission or not, Tj’s sacrifice will never be forgotten by those who know him and love him. He will live on in the hearts and minds of those who love him.
I served in a mission I first did not believe in. I spent a year in Bosnia and was bitter about being separated from my loved ones to make sure that these 3 nations played nice. As a soldier I did my job no matter what my personal beliefs were about the mission. It wasn’t until I, (through the Grace of God) found out what the mission was all about. I was in Army Aviation and got to see that beautiful country from the air and on the ground. Our Blackhawks were too big to fit into most of the base camps throughout the US sector, so we would land outside of them. It was there, in the Tuzla Valley, I met my Mikey. Mikey was a 7 or 8 year old boy. The happiest boy you have ever met, always smiling and laughing wearing his shorts and a thin t-shirt, no matter what the weather. Mikey was missing half of one of his arms and had shrapnel wounds all over his body. His brother had lost both of his legs. They were playing in their yard when they hit a land mine. My mission was for Mikey and all the other Mikeys in Bosnia. Your son’s mission played a big role for all the Mikeys of Iraq.
It is my prayer that Tj met his Mikey. Our hearts go out to you and your family.
God Bless,

Cheryl lopez

January 7, 2009

Dear Gonzales Family:
Our hearts go out to you all. We were so saddened to hear of your "Hero's" passing. The ultimate price was paid for our freedom and that is something that isn't taken lightly. I cannot say I understand but I can say I will pray for you and your family. It will be an incredibly hard road to walk, and you may falter many times. That's ok...God is by your side.
Sincerely,
Cheryl Lopez/Dr. Renshaw's office

Cheryl lopez

January 7, 2009

Dear Gonzales Family:
Our hearts go out to you all. We were so saddened to hear of your "Hero's" passing. The ultimate price was paid for our freedom and that is something that isn't taken lightly. I cannot say I understand but I can say I will pray for you and your family. It will be an incredibly hard road to walk, and you may falter many times. That's ok...God is by your side.
Sincerely,
Cheryl Lopez/Dr. Renshaw's office

Dawn Inman

January 7, 2009

Our hearts broke for you when we heard about your brave son. Our son just came back from Iraq in September. Those men are our heros of today and yours went to heaven to help God bring our heros home safe..God bless your family...

Steven Masterton

January 7, 2009

My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
He was my friend, and I will miss him.

Desarae's Family, Jason, Aunt Joannie, Uncle Gilbert, Stephen Mendes

Joan Mendes

January 7, 2009

No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. Our deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.

MacDaniel

January 7, 2009

To the Gonzales family,

I know there are no words to say, except how sorry I am for your loss. May you hold Tonys' memory in your heart and please remember he shall never be forgotten.

...For you every single soldier
Those who served so honorable
Your life was forever altered
While I’m home safe and free
I stand with grateful admiration
I stand respectful and so proud
I know I’m only a civilian
And I don’t even know if it’s allowed.

But I salute you; allow me the honor
to salute you with permission let me say
Even though I hold no rank know that from my heart
My humble gratitude comes from the deepest part.
I salute you.

Suzanne MacDaniel
A Proud Aunt
Sgt. David M.Fisher
KIA 12/1/04

Gale Poindexter

January 7, 2009

I am writing to offer my deepest sympathies to you and your family over the loss of your HERO Spc Tony J Gonzales. I lost my son in Iraq on May 6/2007, so I can well understand your pain of losing a loved one so dear.

I pray you will be guided by a higher power to give you peace, comfort and strength in this time.

Psalm 34:18
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit
GOD Bless you and your family. Your soldier was a true American Hero and we are all very proud of his service. He will not be forgotten!


(Proud mother of Sgt Joel W. Lewis, 5/20, 3-2 SBCT /Ft Lewis
KIA 5/6/07, Baqubah, Iraq)

http://www.myspace.com/tulsaok1nurse

Safely Home

Michael Iezzi

January 6, 2009

Father we entrust our brother Tony to your mercy. You loved him greatly in this life: now that he is freed from all its cares, give him happiness and peace forever. Welcome him now into paradise where there will be no more sorrow, no more weeping or pain, but only peace and joy with Jesus your Son, and the Holy Spirit forever and ever.
May God hold Tony in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. My deepest sympathies.

Kevin Graves

January 5, 2009

Dear Tony and Marlynn,

My name is Kevin Graves and I have walked in your shoes. My son, Spc Joseph A. Graves, was killed 25 Jul 06. I pray that the Lord is wrapping His arms around you and comforting you, the way He has done me in the past two years. The pain never goes away but, with the help of Christ who strenghtens us, it becomes manageable.

I feel your pain and a unique closeness to you family.

My son was raised in Newman from 5-9 years old. His mother still lives there.

Also, your son's journey home occured on what would have been my son's 24th Birthday.

My most sincere condolences,

Proud father of 'A True American Hero'
Spc. Joseph A. Graves - KIA 25 Jul 06

Christopher Starr USMC

January 5, 2009

To the Gonzales Family,

My Thoughts and Prayers are with you. Please know that those of us that serve today will forever live and serve in honor and memory of those who have gone before us.
God Bless you during this time of hardship and grief.

Ted Gunther

January 5, 2009

I would like to extend my sincerest and deepest sympathy to the Gonzales family during your time of sorrow and need. Your son, Specialist Tony Gonzales, will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Ted Gunther
Father of a son serving in Iraq

Amanda

January 5, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with u and ur family and friends..God bless u. May you rest in peace in the lords arms

Paula Kohlhaas Miller

January 4, 2009

As a soldier in God's Kingdom you have received the ultimate reward! SPC TONY J GONALES I salute you for your devotion, dedication and sacrifice. To his family, the journey of grief will never end, but you will be comforted by those who loved Tony and always turn to the Lord for His word and let Him and others carry you. I am deeply endebted to you for your son's service and love of his country. I share in your grief, and will keep you forever in my prayers.
Sincerely with love and blessings,
PAULA KOHLHAAS MILLER
ADAM'S AUNT/GOLD STAR MOM
SGT ADAM JOB KOHLHAAS~KIA~4/21/08
101 Airbourne-FT Campbell,KY

Henry Kohlhaas

January 4, 2009

MY SINCERE DEEPEST SYMPHONY TO THE GONZALES FAMILY. Thank you, SPC Tony Gonzales, you are a true American HERO. You will be remembered. May your Family hold each other close, I'll be praying.

Henry P. Kohlhaas
Father of SGT Adam J. Kohlhaas
US Army, 101st, Ft Campbell, KY
KIA 4/21/08 Iraq

Kevin Hawn

January 4, 2009

I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Spc. Gonzales. My family is praying for the Lord to be with you during this terrible time of grief and sorrow. Spc. Gonzales is truly an American hero who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. My children, wife and I want to thank him for his service to our country. Because of men like him America is the greatest country on earth. Our family shares in your loss and will never forget the sacrifice your family has made for us. Spc. Gonzales you are the bravest of the brave and may you rest in peace.
Kevin C. Hawn
Proud Uncle of Cpl. Wayne M. Geiger
KIA Baghad, Iraq 10/18/07

Rebecca Wilson

January 2, 2009

To the Family of Honored Fallen Hero, Army Specialist Tony J Gonzales: We will never forget the life your son gave while defending the freedoms of our nation and the nations of others that we sometimes take for granted. Please know your family's loss rests heavily upon our hearts and we keep you in prayer. Rebecca Wilson, Honor Quilt Ministry, Clovis, Ca.

Nancy Totman

January 2, 2009

To the family of Spc. Gonzales,

Those who die for their country will never be forgotten. Their sacrifice lives on forever in the hearts of all who cherish freedom.

Tony was our nation's son. The pain is so deep, the loss for our country so great.

I'm so very sorry.

Shelley H - Blue Star Mom

January 1, 2009

From our military family to yours, we would like to thank SPC Tony Gonzales for his service and sacrifice to this grateful country, as well as send our deepest condolences for your loss. Our son is stationed at Baumholder and currently deployed to Iraq. My heart breaks for you. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Rachel Lee

January 1, 2009

Once someone told me time does heal, but memories I will always have. I was told this when we lost our son.
I still hurt each day, but still remember that Dus was proud to serve his country and loved working his companions.
I still await his phone call, but know one day I will receive that call when our Father has the Reunion for us.
He is a Hero and has joined the many fine Heroes guarding the gates of Heaven.
I pray for your strength. Thank you for your ultimate sacrifice.
Proud USMC Mom of Cpl Dustin Lee, K9 Handler, KIA 21 Mar 07.

Sharon Grassi

January 1, 2009

Please know that you son was loved and respected by his fellow soldiers. My son, Cpl Derek Tope was a friend - I heard of Tony's death from him.
America has lost a brave son, Heaven has gained a warrior. Tony, please watch over your brothers in Iraq.
I pray Christ holds your family in his gentle hands during this difficult time.

Joel & Anita Richards

January 1, 2009

My heart just breaks for your loved ones left to grieve you! But, SPC TOny Gonzalez, is our HERO! And will not be forgotten. My graditude and appreciation for his service, sacrifice and ultimately paying the price for FREEDOM! You are not alone, we too are a GOLD STAR FAMILY, remembering the day all over again, when our son was killed in action.We are grieving yet another youngman who was willing to stand and serve his COUNTRY! no matter what the cost! We are praying for you, your family.
Resting in heaven, where Soldier's dream of Peace!
Parents of SSG Frank Gasper

For the Commander, Carroll R. Michaud

January 1, 2009

The Final Salute

“Brothers in Arms”, Military men and women down through the centuries, have traditionally exchanged “Hand Salutes” as a sign of recognition and as a way to render courtesy and respect one to another.

This “Hand Salute” is the last that we shall render to Spc. Tony J. Gonzales our Brother in Arms. To his family it symbolizes the love and respect that we have for Tony. And to Tony it is rendered as a symbol of honor and gratitude to thank him for the ultimate sacrifice he made for his country while opposing terrorist forces in Iraq. No greater love is shown than a man lay down his life for another. Tony, you are a brave Warrior, a true Patriot and a national Hero. With your passing, our Country has lost a National Treasure. We bid you a sad farewell. You will be dearly missed from among our ranks. Be at ease. Rest in Peace.

On behalf of the 1,409 members of Lowe-McFarlane Post 14 of the American Legion in Shreveport, Louisiana, I extend our sympathies and our condolences to Tony’s family and loved ones.

Dennis N. Engdahl, Commander, American Legion Post 14
5315 S. Lakeshore Drive, Shreveport, LA 71109

Henryk Zaleski USN (Ret)

January 1, 2009

Rest in peace.

Peggy Childers

January 1, 2009

To the family of Spc. Tony J. Gonzales:
Tony gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

Sandy Bonesteel

January 1, 2009

My condolences to the family of Spc. Tony J. Gonzales. May they know that there are many, many people who are grieving with them; and that care very deeply about them.

RIP PFC Aaron J. Ward 4/28/89 - 5/6/08 (KIA)

Gary Tolle

December 31, 2008

Tony, I just wanted to say thank you for your brave and honorable service to a grateful nation, a nation in mourning for our fallen heroes. You like so many other soldiers chose to serve our nation when needed most and with your life you protected the very core of what America stands for. My nephew PFC Aaron J. Ward also made that sacrifice on 5/6/2008 when he was killed in action in Iraq. As I mourn for my nephew I mourn for you and every fallen soldier and know that you all will forever be in my thoughts and prayers, we as a nation will never forget you. I stand tall and salute you Tony and from the bottom of my heart I thank you for the nights we at home were able to sleep without fear and know that we are safe because you and your fellow soldiers stood watch. To the Gonzales family, words cannot express the pain we now share, but our families will forever have a bond and we will be thinking of Tony and your family and will keep you in our thoughts & prayers. Please accept my heart felt condolences and my prayer that god help you cope with this tragic loss and may the memories of your HERO carry you through each day. From one Gold Star family to another!

Marsha Gonsalves

December 31, 2008

My heartfelt sympathy to the family of Tony Gonzales as you begin this painful journey. My husband brought the paper in this morning and showed me the headlines and I cried to know that another family has to endure the painful emotions and heartache that we came to know on Feb. 13th 2006 when we got the news that our son, SFC Chad Gonsalves had lost his life along with 3 other brave young men. You will be in our thoughts and prayers from now on. If ever you need to talk to anyone please contact me. I live in Turlock. If possible I will attend the services for your son. May God give you the strength and courage to face the days ahead and just remember what a hero you son is. That's what keeps me going. I remember that Chad told me to just be proud of him if anything ever happened to him. And that is exactly what I do. The years since his loss have not been easy and I doubt they ever will. Life will certainly never be the same but knowing my son, all of our sons and daughters lost to this war, are the greatest of heros helps me to heal. Surround yourselves with family and friends and remember those truly special times. God Bless each and every one of you.
Sincerely,
Marsha Gonsalves
Proud Mom of
SFC Chad Gonsalves
US Army
KIA 2-13-06 Afghanistan

SHIRLEY DONEY

December 31, 2008

REST IN PEACE SPC. GONZALES, TO YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS MAY THE MEMORIES OF THIS WONDERFUL SOLDIERS LIFE FILL YOUR HEARTS WITH BEAUTIFUL MEMORIES
GOD BLESS YOU

Garnet Jenkins

December 31, 2008

My Deepest and Most Heartfelt Sympathy goes out to the family of Spc. Tony J. Gonzales, with Profound Gratitude for your Brave Young Soldier's Courage, Dedication and Service to our Country and for Freedom.

The price Tony and his family have paid, Will Never Be Forgotten. May he Rest Safely, in God's Care and may the Peace of God be with the Gonzales family.
I am the Sister of such a young hero, who made the Ultimate Sacrifice in Vietnam, many years ago

"Surely He hath borne our grief, and carried our sorrows."
~ Isaiah 53:4 ~

May you find comfort and strength, in the beautiful memories of times spent with Tony.
Quietly and gently, may healing come, with each new day.
You are in my thoughts and my prayers.

Tony

December 31, 2008

Tony

December 31, 2008

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To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Tony's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

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Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

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Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

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How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

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The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

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Ways to honor Tony Gonzales's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

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How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

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How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

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