October 14, 1948-December 10, 2022
William (Bill, Billy, Bobby) Gonzalez, 74, passed away on December 10, 2022, in Gilbert, AZ, surrounded by his loving family. Bill’s parents Trinidad and Lucila Gonzalez, brother, Orlando Gonzalez, and granddaughter, Doreen Saiz, precede him in death. His survivors include his wife and life partner, Nellie Gonzalez, his sister, Laura Gonzalez, six children, twenty grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Bill was born and raised in Clifton, Arizona. He attended and graduated from Clifton High School, where he was a gifted athlete. His family owned and operated El Ranchito tortilla factory. During his time in Clifton, he worked in the carpenter shop for Phelps Dodge mining company, coached little league, and belonged to the Social Club and Clifton Trojan boosters.
In 1986, he and his family moved to Chandler, Arizona. Bill cherished personal relationships. His work was the perfect vehicle to pursue that passion. He made lasting friendships while working at Arizona State University (ASU) and Gila River Casinos. In 2010, Bill retired to be a full-time grandpa, and his name forever changed to Bob.
He had many passions. He was a diehard sports fan, music enthusiast, and family man. He was quick to know the names of players, stats, and music artists. Most of all, he loved his family and his friends. He knew everyone’s nicknames and often gave them. He enjoyed celebrating family birthdays, holidays, attending his grandchildren’s activities and catching up with friends. He will be deeply missed for his kind nature, supportive words, and wonderful sense of humor.
Catholic Mass in celebration of Bill’s life is being held on Friday, January 13, 2023 at 10:00A.M. at the Conventual Church of Our Lady of the Angels at the Franciscan Renewal Center, 5802 E. Lincoln Drive, Paradise Valley, Arizona 85253.
Anna O’Leary
Sincere condolences. May the family find peace and comfort in their time of loss.
Raymond, Rose Mary Coronado & family
Our thoughts and prayers are with the whole Gonzalez family. My family and I met Bill when he went to work at ASU. It was a pleasure to have him in my team during his tenure at ASU, and running into him at the Casino. Bill always had a smile on his face and got along with everyone. May Bill Rest In Peace
Diane Callahan
I’m so heartbroken. We loved that guy. Deepest sympathy to his family and all who knew this wonderful, kind, loving man. I’m really gonna miss our talks. Affectionately, Diane & Ray
Savannah
love you bob forever
John R.
To the Gonzalez family and all of Bill’s friends alike, I had the pleasure of acquainting myself with Bill for the almost three years of student employment at ASU while I was a student. I reflect on his kind spirit, his comedic approach with the facilities management team, and his overall positive perspective on life. I pray for all to know that Bill was assigned his purpose for God and it was fulfilled fully and now he has spread his wings and is an angel walking among us. God bless and comfort you during this time, and may you carry forward his legacy.
Ann Marie Hainz
My prayers and heartfelt thoughts are with the family. I know “BOB” will be missed.
Mimi Condon
I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to know Bob. Although my moments were few, he always made me feel like family. My love and big hugs to the whole family. Too short here, but I trust The Lord had an amazing reason for Bob coming home so soon. Continued prayers for strength and ongoing love within this amazing family.