Emanuel R. Gonzales Sr., affectionately known as Hap, went to be with our Lord on February 24, 2019.
Hap was a longtime resident of Raton, working for United Chevrolet for over 25 years. It was a common sit to see him operating the tow truck pulling stranded motorists off the Raton pass. He served in the US Air Force and was a Word War II Veteran. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, Sunday drives, weekend road trips and trips to visit family. He was an avid bowler performing duties of secretary, treasurer and president of his bowling league at The Spur Lanes.
Hap was born to Petrolino and Ramoncita Lujan Gonzales on March 12, 1922 in Clapham, New Mexico.
Hap is preceded in death by his wife Patricia L. Kelly Gonzales, son Michael Eugene, Daughter Linda Louise, siblings Felipita, Allie, Bill, Joe, Maria, Alfonso, Alex and Dick. Two Great grandsons, Hunter and Tanner Carruth. Hap is survived by Sisters Elanor Lovato; Son Emanuel R. Gonzales, Jr. (Rick) and daughters Nancy Potts (Clyde) and Debra Yob. Twelve grandchildren; Jeremy, Derek, Kelli (Chris), Jeff (Melissa) Kevin (Ashley), Carla, Jason (Kelly), Crystal (Justin), Ryan (Amanda), Katie (Jarrod), Josh (Kelly) and Emery; Twenty-three great grandchildren with one on the way and one great-great grandson.
Hap was a God loving man who was devoted to his family. He and his wife Pat opened their doors to anyone in need. Never truly becoming an empty nester, Hap babysat for numerous babies through their childhood following Haps retirement. He would have been 97 years young on March 12 th.
Recitation of The Most Holy Rosary will be held on Monday, March 4, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Patrick’s/St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Raton NM, recited by Deacon Thomas Alderette. Solemn Mass of the Resurrection will be Monday Mach 3, 2019 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Patrick’s/St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Raton, NM with Father Bill Woytavich as the Celebrant. Rite of Committal and Internment will be at the Santa Fe National Cemetery, Tuesday, March 5th at 12:45 PM. In lieu of flowers can be sent to Friends of National World War II Memories 921 Pennsylvania Ave S.E. 316 Washington D.C. 20003
Arrangements for Emanuel R. “Hap” Gonzales Sr. are under the direction of the Alderette-Pomeroy Funeral Home.
