Joe A. Gonzales

Joe A. Gonzales, 81 of La Junta passed away on Wednesday, February 15, 2012 at the Arkansas Valley Regional Nursing Care Center. He was born on August 16, 1930 in Swink to Antonio & Mercedes (Montano) Gonzales. He married Martha J. Trujillo in Raton, New Mexico in 1955; she preceded him in death on October 22, 2004.Joe worked at the Pueblo Army Depot where he retired as an equipment specialist. Joe enjoyed dancing, crossword puzzles and working his yard. He also was an avid Denver Bronco fan. He was a member of the Our Lady of Guadalupe/St. Patrick Parish where he was an usher and volunteer. He also enjoyed volunteering for Jay’s Christmas Dinner. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.He is survived by his children, Alfred (Alice) Trujillo of Denver; John (Valerie) Gonzales of Littleton, CO; Jerry Gonzales of La Junta; JoAnn (Michael) Green of Dumas, Texas; Wanda (John) Landgren of La Junta; sister, Lucy Vigil of Rocky Ford; 12 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, infant daughter, Suprina Gonzales, four brothers, four sisters.In lieu of flowers those wishing to do so may make memorial contributions to the Arkansas Valley Hospice, PO Box 408, La Junta, CO, 81050 direct or through the funeral home.

Graveside service will be held on Tuesday, February 21, 2012 at 1 p.m. at the Calvary Cemetery with Father Charles Sena of the St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Lamar and military honors by theRocky Ford Rifle Team, American Legion Post #8. Visitation will be Saturday, February 18, 2012 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Peacock Memorial Chapel.