Victor José Gonzalez Grau

Biography: Victor José Gonzalez Grau, a devoted father, cherished mentor, and community pillar, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 3, 2025, in Little Rock, Arkansas, after a brief illness. He was surrounded by the love of his three children.

Born in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, Victor was the son of the late Victor José Gonzalez Morales and Carmen Irma Grau Gonzalez. He was a graduate of Escuela Superior Francisco Mendoza in Isabela, PR, and the University of Maryland, and he honorably served his country in both the United States Air Force and the Navy Reserve.

Following his military service, Victor dedicated his career to the insurance industry. He began at Marsh & McLennan and later co-founded and co-owned Cleland & Associates Insurance with his longtime business partner and friend, Richard Cleland. Together, they expertly served numismatists for over 30 years.

Beyond his professional success, Victor's true passion was found on the field, coaching and mentoring young people. He devoted decades to youth sports in Little Rock, starting by coaching his own children in basketball, baseball, and soccer. He became a cornerstone of the Central Arkansas soccer community, where he was a licensed referee for over 20 years. He coached dozens of teams throughout his life, most recently leading the boys' varsity soccer team at Wilbur D. Mills University Studies High School, where he also taught business courses.

Victor's generosity reached far beyond the field. He was well known for quietly helping students and families in need-whether by purchasing soccer gear for children who couldn't afford it, guiding students through college applications, or providing a listening ear and a bit of much-needed levity. His commitment to education and mentorship was evident in his final weeks, when he was excitedly preparing to begin teaching Spanish at Mills while also planning for the upcoming soccer season.

Above all, Victor found his greatest joy and fulfillment in being a father to his three children. Steady, generous, and kind, he drew his deepest sense of purpose from supporting and loving them. His love and guidance shaped the lives of those around him, and his absence leaves a profound void in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who knew him.

Victor is survived by his beloved children Victor Jaime Gonzalez, Charles José Gonzalez (Elizabeth Ann), and Anne Morley Gonzalez, and by his treasured grandson Felix. He is also survived by his former spouse, devoted mother of his children, and lifelong friend, Julianne Gonzalez; his sisters Wanda, Denise, and Yvonne; and his cousin and best friend, Gary. He leaves behind a large and loving extended family of cousins, nieces, and nephews, who often regarded him as a brother or second father, and a host of cherished friends. Victor was preceded in death by his parents and by his sister Mayra.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, November 24, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. at Ruebel Funeral Home, 6313 West Markham Street in Little Rock, with a reception to follow. Victor will be laid to rest at the Puerto Rico National Cemetery in Bayamón, Puerto Rico.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites memorial contributions to support the Wilbur D. Mills University Studies High School soccer team, continuing Victor's mission of giving every child access to the beautiful game. Contributions may be made in the following ways:

Checks may be made payable to Mills High School Soccer Team and can be mailed to:

Wilbur D. Mills University Studies High School
Attn: Soccer Program
708 E. Dixon Rd.
Little Rock, AR 72206

Donations may also be sent to Assistant Soccer Coach Ms. Jessica Parker via:

Venmo: @jparker5150
CashApp: $jaybangtan5150
Please include "Mills Soccer Team" in the note section when donating online.