George Walter Luke Gonzales

1930 - 2023

George Walter Luke Gonzales was born at home, in Shell Beach, Louisiana, on December 15, 1930. Exactly 92 years and 6 months later, he entered into the Lord's eternal presence, on June 15, 2023. Heaven was waiting! There to greet him were his parents, the late Mitcheal "Hilaire" Gonzales and the late Emmanuella "Lala" Serigne; his infant sister, Mary; his wife, the late Shirley Varnado Gonzales to whom he was married for 49 years, and took wonderful care of; his wife's parents, the late Alan and Mildred "Onti" Varnado, and her infant sister, Laurijean; his brothers and sisters-in-law, the late Mitcheal and Joyce, the late Thomas and Esther, the late Florie and Patricia; and his youngest brother, the late Edward N. Gonzales, Sr., whom he adored. He is survived by his sister-in-law, Darleen A. Long Gonzales; two cousins, Cyril Gonzales, Sr. and Rudy Gonzales, Sr.; along with a host of nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly. He also leaves behind his devoted friends, Donald and Rose Stout; and Steven Spears, his cousin-in-law, who he often referred to as the son he never had. George was born and raised in Shell Beach and was an avid fisherman and hunter. He was known as the Gonzales Family Photographer, and enjoyed bowling, practicing his Spanish, and singing Spanish love songs. One of the family's best memories was hearing "The Gonzales Boys Band" playing every Sunday evening in their parents' home, in Hopedale. He served in the US Army, and entertained everyone by singing and playing the guitar and the harmonica. He truly was gifted musically, as all of the brothers were. He was formerly employed with Metairie Ford as an Auto A/C Specialist. For a short time, he had a small business named Porter and Gonzales. Later he worked at Ives Printing in New Orleans, as a Pressman until he retired. The family wishes to express their sincere thanks to Heritage Healthcare in Hammond, with shout outs to nurses Janet, Mimi, Kimberly, Danielle, and Nikki (Gracias Amiga!), Amy, Robin, Jessica, Unit Coordinator Ashley (always opening that door), CNA Nikki (whom he loved and often spoke highly of her kindness), and Ms. T, his chauffeur to medical appointments. A big thank you to Merlene Schaeffer for being a great neighbor. The absolute biggest thanks to Shannon Wallace for going above and beyond her duties, Ginger Acosta for delicious meals, and to Ms. Michelle Taylor for lovingly sharing daily devotions with George on her lunch break. You are obeying your calling and are an inspiration! None of you will ever be forgotten! I can still hear you calling out "Hey, King George! " May the Lord bless you all richly! Love, Darleen Gonzales Dupuy and the Family of George W. Gonzales. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Friday, June 23, 2023, at Our Lady Of Lourdes Catholic Church, 2321 Colonial Blvd, in Violet, from 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM. A funeral mass will begin in his honor at 11:00 AM. He will be laid to rest, with military honors, in St. Bernard Catholic Cemetery, in St. Bernard.