Jesus (Jess/Chuey) Gaona, 87, of Ahwatukee, AZ, gained his wings on December 26, 2020. He was born in Mesa, AZ on March 25, 1933, to Nicolas and Victoria Gaona. Chuey married his wife, Alice (Monnie), in 1955.
He served in the United States Navy for four years. After his service, he worked as a Sheet Metal Journeyman, Local 359, for 30 years. Alice and Jess raised four children in the Phoenix area before moving to Ahwatukee. After his retirement from Local 359, he became a beloved evening custodian for Phoenix Elementary School District #1, Garfield Elementary.
Along with being an avid reader, Chuey was a sports fan. He loved to watch his favorite sports teams in his leisure time, especially the ASU Sun Devils. He and Monnie were ASU football season ticket holders for 30 years. Chuey also enjoyed playing golf with his friends, especially the 19th hole!
Chuey was preceded in death by his parents, 6 brothers, 5 sisters, and his oldest son, Richard.
He leaves behind his wife, Alice, who lovingly cared for Chuey throughout his battle with Alzheimer’s, as well as his sisters Alice, Betty, and Carmen; his brother Nello; his children: David (Jennifer), Mark (Carol), and Lisa (Ken); his grandchildren: Richard Jr, Deanna (Tim), Danny, Lacey, Michael, Andy (Jesslyn), William (Aarika), Alex (Liz), Kaitlin, Gabriela, Matthew, Tyler, Briana, Nicolas, and Alisia; and his great-grandchildren: Jake, Ramsey, Ben, Lena, Maia, and Leo.
Chuey, Dad, Tata, Uncle, friend – your smile, laugh, quick wit, hard work, and dedication to your family will always be an example to all of us. You are forever in our hearts.
Special gratitude is expressed for his caregivers at Angels Senior Care Home in Ahwatukee and Hospice of the Valley, who provided tremendous support during his last three years.
A private Rosary and Mass will be celebrated on January 15, 2021 at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, followed by interment at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, a donation in his name to Hospice of the Valley (1510 E Flower St. Phoenix, AZ 85014)
or the Alzheimer’s Association ( alz.org ) is deeply appreciated. Condolences may be expressed at www.whitneymurphyfuneralhome.com.
Irene Pacanowski
I’m so sorry to here about your loss. May the wonderful memories you made with your husband , father, tata,and brother comfort you at this time of sorrow. Jess has gained his wings and will be in your hearts forever. It was a pleasure to have known him.
Shelley (Schira) Decker
Mark and the entire Gaona family, please accept my prayers and thoughts at this time. It’s hard to lose a parent but especially during the holidays. I know you will hold his memory close to your hearts.