Claudio Gonzalez

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our dear Claudio Gonzalez. Prior to his passing, Claudio was happily living out his retirement in Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey, with his beloved wife, Mary Ellen. Exceptionally young at heart at 73 years old, Claudio entered the presence of the Lord on Saturday, January 31, 2026. He is now at peace in the loving arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Claudio was born in Havana, Cuba, and immigrated to the United States as a young child with his family. They settled in Hoboken, New Jersey, where he was raised by loving parents. During his formative years, Claudio developed lifelong friendships and distinguished himself as a remarkably brilliant and driven individual.

As the founder of the U.S.A. Goju Karate College and a lifelong karate teacher who attained the rank of 10th Degree Black Belt Master, Claudio mentored and befriended hundreds of students and contemporaries. He introduced countless Union City, New Jersey inner-city children to karate, many of whom went on to propagate the art and continue practicing it to this day.

After high school, Claudio was drafted directly from Pace University in New York City to work for a large Latin music firm, where he immediately excelled. His computer skills were exceptional. Recognizing an opportunity for a lifelong career in service, he joined the Union City Police Department in 1977, graduating at the top of his Police Academy class. He served with distinction in uniform and in an undercover narcotics capacity. His strong administrative skills enabled him to rise to the rank of Inspector. Claudio retired in 2004 after 27 years of dedicated and honorable service. Following his retirement from the Union City Police Department, Claudio worked part-time with the Department of Defense, where he assisted with technical training for the Federal Air Marshals.

Claudio’s passion for life and mastery of all he pursued also led him to become an accomplished musician and an avid cyclist. In retirement, he found great fulfillment in the challenge and camaraderie of cycling, joy in skillfully playing his collection of guitars, continued dedication to teaching karate, and cherished time spent with family and friends.

Throughout his life, Claudio remained deeply devoted to God and country. After retiring, he settled in Little Egg Harbor in 2004 and became a faithful member of Pinelands Community Church. His love and knowledge of the Bible was extensive and remarkable.

Claudio was predeceased by his parents, Claudio O. Gonzalez and Ydoris Esther Perez-Brito. He is survived by his loving wife of 22 years, Mary Ellen; his son, Matthew Gonzalez; his daughter, Jessica Giuglianotti; his sister, Mayra Gonzalez; his grandchildren, Caden (11) and Ava (6); his nephew, Jim Espaillat and wife Diane; great-nephews; Ryan and Ethan; his great-niece Emma; loving cousins and many lifelong friends.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 12, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until the Funeral Service at 11:30 a.m. at Maxwell Funeral Home, 160 Mathistown Road, Little Egg Harbor, NJ 08087. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery in Tuckerton, New Jersey.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation in Claudio's name can be made to the Pinelands Community Church at C/O Pastor Jeff Seavey 200 Mathistown Rd, Little Egg Harbor Twp, NJ 08087.

In the event of inclement weather or for family and friends who live out of state, a live stream service will be provided. It will be accessible from 11am-12pm on February 12th via zoom at the link below:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89667563388?pwd=zCRD43jEXmasju2RVQmeEripDORkga.1

passcode: 6092966060

We grieve deeply yet find peace in knowing his love lives on and his soul rests with the Lord.

Psalm 91:11 “For He will give His angels charge concerning you, to guard you in all your ways.”

Exodus 23:20 “See, I am sending an angel ahead of you to guard you along the way and to bring you to the place I have prepared.”