Leonard Paul Gonzales

Leonard Paul Gonzales

February 17, 1946-November 3,

  Leonard Paul Gonzales, age 78, passed away on November 3, 2024, in Wiggins, MS. Born on February 17, 1946, in Garyville, LA. Leonard proudly served in the United States Navy from 1964 to 1968, a period during which he developed a strong sense of duty and commitment. He was deployed on the USS Basilone from 1965-1967, during which time he served in the Vietnam War. After his military service, he met and married Marcia on May 13, 1972. While living in Louisiana, they welcomed their first son, Greg, and daughter, Missy. Later, they moved to Pensacola FL where they welcomed their second son, Glen, who started his career as an electrician with NADAP. His career path later led him to the construction sector from 1992 to 2006 and briefly overlapped with his time at FEMA from 2005 to 2006, where he contributed his knowledge during critical times.

  One of his biggest accomplishments was earning the nickname BopBop, which his first granddaughter, Abi, gave him. He loved spending time with his three beautiful granddaughters. He was particularly fond of spoiling his granddaughters, who brought immense joy to his life.

  A man of many interests, Leonard was an avid woodworker, a skill he took great pride in. One of his accomplishments is the cradle he made for his first granddaughter, which he later passed on to his other two granddaughters. His love for the outdoors was evident through his passion for hunting and fishing. A tech enthusiast, Leonard enjoyed staying updated with the latest technological advancements. His spirit was cheered on by supporting the LSU Tigers, showing his deep-rooted love for sports. His patriotic nature and passion for discussing politics often sparked lively conversations.

  Leonard was a devoted family man. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Marcia M. Gonzales; children, Greg Gonzales (Maria), Missy Chambers (Joe), and Glen Gonzales (Michelle); and granddaughters, Abi Chambers, Sara Chambers, and Heaven Gonzales. He is also survived by his brothers, Donnie Gonzales (Jennie) and Terry G. Gonzales (Gail). 

   Leonard was preceded in death by his parents, Sidney Bowden Gonzales and Cecil Cambre Gonzales, and his siblings, Sidney (Sonny) Gonzales, Patsy Sikkink, and Kenny Gonzales.

  Leonard’s life was marked by his dedication to his family and his service to the nation, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

  Services will be held at Olive Baptist Church, 1836 E. Olive Road, Pensacola, FL 32514, on Monday, November 18, 2024. Visitation will be at 9:30 a.m., and the service will be at 10:30 a.m.  There will be a private burial at Barrancas National Cemetery. 

   Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport, is serving the family. Please sign the guestbook and share memories & photos at www.riemannfamily.com