Albert Gonzales

Albert earned his wings on May 7, at home surrounded by his family. Albert was a caring and loving family man who devoted his time to his granddaughter’s hockey games. As he always said, “number 6 on the ice but number 1 in my heart.”

Albert and his family moved to Colorado Springs in 1979 where he worked as a communications technician for Qwest. He participated in the company bowling and golf leagues. After 30 years of service, Albert retired. Upon retirement in 2003, Albert contributed his time to the Colorado Springs Community. He served on various city committees advocating and searching for solutions to problems that affected minorities and veterans. He was an active member of the following organizations; Sacred Heart Church, Black and Latino Coalition, Fraternal Order of the Eagles 3650, and the American GI Forum. He devoted his time to the Westside Pantry located at Sacred Heart Church serving food to those in need. He served in the United States Air Force from 1975-1979 as an air traffic controller. As a Veteran he was loyal to the American GI Forum where he held many local, state, and national offices; most recently State Commander. He was the National Commander for the American GI Forum from 2010-2013. During his tenure, he met many Congressmen and Senators including President Obama and then Vice President Biden. As National Commander, he was called to testify before Congressional Committees advocating for Veterans. He was also selected to serve on the Selective Service Board. He also was elected to serve the American GI Forum National Veterans Outreach Program board.

On Saturday mornings, you would find Albert at either Valley Hi or Patty Jewett playing golf. After retirement you could find him at Valley Hi most days of the week. Albert shared his love of golf with his son, Caesar, whether playing a round of 9 or playing in a tournament. Albert also enjoyed dancing, drinking a beer with friends, watching TV, and eating popcorn.

Albert was born in Melrose, New Mexico but grew up in Ft. Sumner, NM. He graduated in 1969 from Ft. Sumner High School where he played football. He is remembered by his classmates for kicking the winning field goal against Clayton during his last game and became known as the “Golden Toe.” He attended Eastern New Mexico University where he met the love of his life, Dora. They were married on July 2, 1971, and have remained married for 50 years.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arturo and Dolores Gonzales, and his grandparents, Rumaldo and Aurora Gonzales and Max and Patricia Griego. He is survived by his wife Dora, son Caesar (Randi) Gonzales, daughter Jessica (Tim) Nesvold, granddaughter Sofia, and step-grandson Hunter. He is also survived by his 10 siblings: Geneva Gonzales, Tom (Yvonne) Gonzales, Dave (Carol) Gonzales, Diane (Beto) Lopez, Rose (Jerry) Hernandez, George (Kathy) Gonzales, Geraldine (Albert) Sena, Lewis Gonzales, Christina Gonzales, and Tim (Andrea) Gonzales; 2 sister-in-laws: Rosa Marez and Josie Marez; numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. Albert’s celebration of life begins with Rosary on Tuesday, June 8, 2021, at 7:00 p.m. at Sacred Heart Church, a memorial service on Wednesday, June 9, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Church, 2030 W. Colorado Ave, followed by burial at the National Cemetery. There will be a celebration of life reception at the Eastside Eagles, 1830 N. Academy Blvd. from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Albert’s welcoming and loving spirit will be missed by many.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to either the Sacred Heart Food Pantry, 2030 W. Colorado Ave., Colorado Springs, CO, 80904, or to the Albert Gonzales Scholarship in care of the American GI Forum Colorado Springs Chapter, PO Box 6556 Colorado Springs, CO, 80904.