Mr. Jose J. Gonzales

Jose Jorge Gonzales, age 95, of Fort Gratiot, passed away on November 17, 2021 with his family by his side. He was born March 20, 1926 in Brackettville, Texas to the late Jose Pilar and Maria Gonzales. He married Theresa Diaz on November 14, 1953 in Marysville. Jose grew up through humble means as a migrant worker but was head strong and determined to make a difference in the world. He entered the army at the tender age of 18 in 1944. He saw much war and action throughout his 20 year service career including: being part of the 168th engineer Combat Battalion participating in the Battle of the Bulge Campaign at St. Vith. Jose continued his career through the births of five children and the Korean War. His commendable behavior netted him medals & awards including: the Purple Heart(WII); Good Conduct Medal (WWII); Victory Medal(WWII); Korean Service Medal; National Defense Service Medal, Occupation Medal(Japan). His final earned title was of Master Sargent E-8 along with many letters and certificates of commendation. After retiring in Michigan on January 1, 1967, he went back to school while working as a New York Life Agent(1967-69); Sears & Maintenance Service (1970-74); and then graduated from St. Clair County Community College(1973). His final career was as a Spanish Instructor at SC4(1975-1991), which he enjoyed completely because of his love of language and culture. Jose is survived by his wife of 68 years, Theresa; his children: Maria M.(Pilar) Gonzales(Eric Reed); Lea C. Gonzales-Bier(James J. Bier); Carolina Isabelle Gonzales; Manuel B. Gonzales. Grandchildren: Marisa Ann (Brandon)McNamee; Theresa M. (Jason)Zimmerman; Matthew J. (Nicole)Gonzales; Antonia Maria Gonzales; David Frontera, Zara Dane, Shepherd Gonzales Great Grandchildren: Rory John McNamee, Alejandra Teresa McNamee, Kassidy Ann Kavanagh, Madison J. Zimmerman, MacKenzie R. Zimmerman, Jason H. Zimmerman II Preceded in death by: (father)Jose Pilar Gonzales; (mother)Maria Lopez Gonzales; (brother) Pvt.1stClass Manuel Gonzales; (son) Jose Pilar Gonzales; (mother-in-law) Manuela Diaz. Funeral mass will be at 11:00am on Wednesday, November 24, 2021 at Holy Trinity Parish St. Joseph Catholic Church, 1331 7th Street. Father Bradley Forintos will officiate. Burial will be in St. Clair County Allied Veterans Cemetery. Visiting hours will be 4:00pm-8:00pm on Tuesday, November 23 at Jowett Fumeral Home, 1634 Lapeer Avenue, Port Huron and Wednesday at the church from 10:30am to 11:00am. The St. Clair County Allied Veterans Honor Guard will conduct military honors along with the United States Army. Pallbearers will be James J. Bier, Philip Chavez, John Diaz Jr., Brandon R. McNamee, Matthew J. Gonzales, and Jason Zimmerman II. Memorial tributes can be made to the VFW or Holy Trinity Parish. Jowett Funeral Home is privileged to assist the Gonzales family with arrangements. To view the obituary and share memories, please visit www.jowettfuneraldirectors.com

Mr. Jose J. Gonzales

March 20, 1926 - November 17, 2021