Submitted by his wife and children
Ricky Gonzales joined the Beaumont‚ Texas Fire Department in 1977‚ where he served in many different capacities over his almost 27-year career. His primary positions included Driver‚ Captain‚ and for the last 7 years District Chief. His car was number 51. It is a tribute to Ricky and his family that he also has a brother and a nephew who have followed in his footsteps to become Firefighters.
Rick had a smile that could warm any heart. He was a very kind and loving person‚ who truly loved his job and his men‚ which is why he was so very good at what he did. No matter where he was‚ if anyone needed help he was always there. Serving others was not something Rick did just as a job. It was truly his way of life.
Rick was also a devoted husband‚ father‚ son‚ brother and friend. He was very active in the Church and in the lives of our children. He was so blessed to be able to see both of his children get married and start their families. Our precious‚ beautiful daughter‚ Rosa‚ married Jeff Coulter in July 2001 and then Rick was very blessed to attend the birth of our granddaughter‚ Alana‚ who was the apple of his eye.
Then in June 2003‚ we were very blessed to be able to witness our son Brandon’s marriage to Crissy in Playa Del Carmen‚ Mexico. It will be a memory that we will all cherish forever.
Ricky was also very active when he was not working. He truly enjoyed hunting and playing golf with his buddies. In honor of his serving spirit‚ the value that he placed on education‚ and his love of golf‚ the family held the First Annual Chief Gonzales Golf Tournament on May 22‚ 2004. The tournament raised over $16‚000 that will be donated to a deserving young person in his memory to fulfill their education. The outpouring of donations and participation in the golf tournament is truly a testament to Rick’s character and to his life.
Rick’s life and the way that he lived is a true legacy that he left for each of us in his family and everyone that he came in contact with. He will always be missed and will never be forgotten.
Rick is survived by his mother‚ Olivia Gonzales‚ wife‚ Tiny Gonzales‚ son‚ Brandon Gonzales and his wife Crissy‚ daughter Rosa Coulter and her husband Jeff and granddaughter Alana‚ his stepson Todd Mossburg and his wife Angie and son Zachary‚ and his stepson Daryl Mossburg‚ all his brothers and sisters and host of friends.
It was a true blessing and privilege to serve with Chief Gonzalez. We made many memories together, that was cut off way to soon. Think of him often.
– Jeff Bundick