July 10, 1945 ~ July 3, 2026
After a long illness, George Gonzalez, of Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota, passed away shortly before his 81st birthday. He leaves behind a legacy of service, hard work, and devotion.
George proudly served in the United States Army with the 1st Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment (“The Old Guard”) at Fort Myer, Virginia (Arlington National Cemetery). That service reflected the sense of discipline, dignity, and duty that would define his life.
After retiring, George volunteered at St. Joseph’s Hospital in St. Paul and with the American Red Cross. His enduring sense of gratitude and respect for his fellow veterans then led him to serve proudly with the Fort Snelling National Cemetery Memorial Rifle Squad for approximately 10 years, a service that brought him great satisfaction and camaraderie.
George’s 45-year career with 3M earned him the respect of coworkers for his work ethic, knowledge, and dependability. He developed an enviable rapport with his customers and built excellent relationships with his 3M sales representatives over the years, working in several offices in New Jersey and Pennsylvania before moving to Minnesota in 1992.
George enjoyed good food, traveling, playing cribbage, cheering for the Philadelphia Eagles, and spending time with his family. He was famously stubborn, but his determination was matched by a generous heart.
George was predeceased by his father, George; his mother, Sophie; and his sister, Nancy. He is survived by his wife of nearly 59 years, Kathleen; his son, Matthew; his daughter-in-law, Kari; and his cherished grandchildren, Mason and Sophia. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Many thanks to everyone at The Commons on Marice and Interim Hospice for their compassionate care and support.
George will be laid to rest at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in a private ceremony and will be honored by his fellow Memorial Rifle Squad members. A celebration of George’s life will be held at a later date.