Edward GONZALEZ

GONZALEZ, Edward 80, of Tampa, was called to our Lord on April 7, 2013. He was surrounded at home by his loving family. A native and lifelong resident of Tampa, Eddie attended Plant High School and was a U.S. Army Veteran of World War II. He graduated from the University of Florida Pharmacy School in 1956 where he played baseball. His passion as a Florida Gator Sports Fan was born. He was the Director of Pharmacy Services at Plant City Baptist Hospital for 7 years. Thereafter, was hired and fell in love with Tampa General Hospital, where he worked in various capacities including Chief Pharmacist of the Rehab Center, Pain Management Center and Psychiatric Center. Tampa General Hospital was truly his second family. Eddit served on various boards including being appointed by the Governor to the State Health and Human Services Board. Eddie retired from Tampa General Hospital after over 42 years of dedicated service. He is preceded in death by his parents, Edward M. Gonzalez Sr. and Dahlia Castro Gonzalez; and his best friend "brother", Vincent Giglio. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Jeannette Gonzalez; son, Brian Gonzalez (Kathy); daughter, Lisa Gonzalez Finn (Jeff); grandchildren, EJ and Matthew Gonzalez and Peyton Finn; sister & brother-in-law, Joyce and Jesse Roger; nephew, Kevin Roger (Scarlett); and niece, Karla Brewer (Joel). Catholic Funeral Services will be held on Friday afternoon, April 12th, 1 pm, at St Lawrence Catholic Church, 5225 N. Himes Ave, with Monsignor Laurence E. Higgins, PA, Pastor Emeritus, officiating. Interment will follow in Centro Asturiano Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Friday morning, April 12th, from 11:30 am, until time of service at the church. The Pallbearers include, Brian Gonzalez, EJ Gonzalez, Matthew Gonzalez, Jeff Finn, Jesse Roger, Kevin Roger & Joe Trumbach. Honorary pallbearers included, Andrew Massaro, Dominic Castellano, Dennis Alvarez, George Levy, & Vincent Giglio, posthumously. Flowers will be accepted or contributions may be made to USF Health Byrd Alzheimer's Institute, 12901 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, MDC70, Tampa, FL 33612 in memory of Eddie Gonzalez, on behalf of Jeannette Gonzalez. He was happiest when surrounded by family and friends. "Papa", we love you and will miss you! Send online condolences to www.jgrfuneralhome.com.