Juaquin G. Gonzales of Hayden, Arizona, passed away on April 27, 2016 in Mesa, Arizona at the age of 91. Juaquin was born to Eugenio and Angelita on Nov. 3, 1924 in the family home in Hayden, Arizona.
In May of 1943, at the age of 18, Juaquin joined the Army, serving our country in France, Germany, and Central Europe during WWII. He earned a Bronze Star, American Theater Ribbon, European-African-Middle Eastern Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal and a Victory Medal. He finished his service in January of 1946. In September of 1946 he married Hortencia Baldenegro also of Hayden.
Juaquin was a loving husband, father, Tata, brother, and Tio. He is survived by his wife, Hortencia; children, Maria, Juaquin “Jackie”, Sara, Amelia and Gene; daughter-in-law, Robyn; 8 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, and 5 siblings, Pauline Lopez, Maggie Cuaron, Velia Garcia, Gene Gonzales, and Angie Fessler.
Juaquin was preceded in death by his parents, son-in-law Richard Martinez, and siblings Cruz Gonzales, Paz Lopez, Kiki Gonzales, Jenny Cruz, Tony Gonzales and Joe Sandoval.
Rest in Peace our beloved Juaquin. “We hold you close within our hearts and there you shall remain.”
Services are Friday, May 7, 2016 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Hayden, Arizona. Visitation at 8:30 a.m., Rosary at 9:30 a.m., Mass at 10 a.m., and the Interment following service at Mt. View Cemetery in Hayden, Arizona.