Edgar Alfredo Gonzalez

Edgar Alfredo Gonzalez, 62, of Drums passed away Wednesday in Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest.

He was born in Guatemala City, Guatemala, son of the late Santiago Gonzalez Vargas and Ofilia Papa Flores.

Edgar came to the United States looking for better opportunities in 1978. He took a flight from Guatemala to Los Angeles and arrived with $20 in his pocket. He had connected with his brother, Oscar, who started new life in New York. That's where Edgar would meet his future wife, Debra (Roy) Gonzalez.

Edgar prided himself on his work ethic and became a blue-collar worker in America. He would often share stories of the opportunities he was afforded and how lucky his family is to not face the adversities he had to face growing up.

In his final years he focused on becoming his best self. He never missed a birthday, anniversary or holiday. He made sure you got a card with a genuine message.

He loved being "Pappa" by spoiling his grandchildren. He would keep notes of there favorite things to ensure he always knew what to surprise them with.

Edgar was a quiet and simple man. He expected nothing and tried to give much. He loved soccer and watching cheesy action films.

Edgar was a loving husband, father, grandfather and a friend. He will be missed by his family, friends and everyone who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Oscar and Rueben.

Edgar is survived by his children, Nicholas Gonzalez and his wife, Amanda, Acworth, Ga.; Samantha Petrulsky, Wilkes-Barre; grandchildren, Chad Gonzalez; Peyton Fleig; and Ryan Petrulsky.

Friends and relatives may call from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday at Frank J. Bonin Funeral Home Inc., Hazleton, to pay their respects. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at the convenience of the family.