Elias Manuel Gonzales

FORT WORTH - Elias Manuel Gonzales, known to most as Chief, passed away on May 19, 2024, in Fort Worth, Texas, at the age of 44, after an almost two-year battle with Follicular Lymphoma. Born on February 28, 1980, in Great Falls, Montana, Elias was a strong-willed man who never missed an opportunity to prove someone wrong or have the last word.
Elias is survived by his parents, Sylvester and Silbia Gonzales, his brother Joshua Gonzales and family (Schahara, nephew Tanner, niece Logan), and his beloved grandmother Joaquina Medellin. His children, who were his pride and joy, include Jackson Gonzales, Kennedy Gerber, Townes Gonzales, and Everly Gonzales. He is preceded in death by his sister Melanie Gonzales and his grandparents Anastasio and Eusebia Gonzales, and Pablo Medellin.
Elias, or "Ely" as he was known, attended Arlington Heights High School, graduating in the Class of 1998, and later pursued studies at Stephen F. Austin State University. His journey into the music scene began shortly after college, selling merch for local musicians. Ely's determination and charm led him to tour with several well-known Red Dirt artists, making countless memories and connections along the way.
Ely's hobbies were as diverse as his personality. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed fishing, camping, baseball, golf, music, rodeos, and traveling. He had unique and special connections with each of his children: with Jackson, they bonded over their shared love of rodeo, where Ely helped Jackson live his dream of becoming Lane Frost, and later, they connected over football. Kennedy and Ely shared a deep love of music. They started as Beliebers and spent many years attending concerts together. Townes and Ely had a strong bond through baseball, with Ely always cheering him on at his games. Everly, Ely's "Evie Bear," shared a special bond with her "Daddy Bear." He was always ready to watch her play volleyball and will forever be Evie's biggest fan.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Tuesday, May 28th at 10:00 am at Grace First Presbyterian Church, located at 606 Mockingbird Lane, Weatherford, TX 76086. Flowers can be sent to Grace First Presbyterian Church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the following organizations:
- [American Cancer Society](https://donate.cancer.org)
- [Humane Society of North Texas](https://hsnt.org/donate)
- [The WARM Place](https://thewarmplace.org)
Ely's legacy of stubbornness, humor, and boundless love will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. May he rest in peace, finally having the last word.