Lionel Richard Gonzalez

Lionel Richard Gonzalez, 74, of Tampa, passed away on Wednesday, April 16, 2025. He was born on November 28, 1950. Lionel was of Catholic faith and was a parishioner at St. Paul Catholic Church. He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Hilda Gonzalez, and his brother Louis Gonzalez, Jr.
Lionel was a respected and passionate plumbing instructor, teaching and mentoring many students in various apprenticeship programs for thirty-six years. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. Starting in the early 1970's, Lionel coached and managed baseball teams at West Tampa Little League. He dedicated over 30 years to youth baseball as a coach, manager, player agent, president, and regional director, with many years spent at Wellswood Youth Pony Baseball. Above all, Lionel was a devoted and beloved son, husband, father, and Abuelo. His love for his family was infinite. He treasured his grandsons and was a doting grandfather.
Lionel is survived by his junior high sweetheart and loving wife of 55 years, Linda Gonzalez, his daughter, Melissa Irvin, his son, Derek Gonzalez, his son-in-law, Bryan Irvin and his two grandsons, Christian and Preston Irvin. He is also survived by his two sisters, Viola Alessi and Linda Jorge, along with many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
The family would like to extend our most sincere gratitude to the staff at St. Andrew Post-Acute and Rehabilitation Center for their loving care and compassion. Also, to many family members and dear friends who supported us during Lionel's illness, we are truly grateful.
A visitation will be held at St. Paul Catholic Church from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 29, 2025. A catholic mass will follow from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. Graveside services will be held at Garden of Memories Cemetery at 11:30 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Lionel's memory to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay at www.bgctampa.org.