Dennis James Gonzales, 62, of Clayton, NM was welcomed into the arms of Jesus, on November 2, 2025, in Dalhart, TX.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the Clayton Gospel Church, in Clayton, New Mexico with Pastor Mike Phipps officiating. Burial will follow in the Clayton Memorial Cemetery by Hass Funeral Directors of Clayton, New Mexico.
Dennis was born on August 8th in Clayton, NM to Josephine and Florencio Gonzales.
Dennis grew up in Guymon, OK and attended Guymon High School, where he met his second family and lifelong buddies prior to graduating. After graduation he went on to serve in the US Navy, where he spent his time stationed in San Diego, CA and the love for his Chargers began.
After his time spent serving in the Navy, Dennis met the love of his life, Michele, in Clayton, NM through friends. They were married on November 15, 1986, and built a beautiful life together for 39 years. Together, they welcomed three beautiful children—Denise, Anthony, Nicholas—into their lives, who are their pride and joy. Dennis cherished every moment spent with his family and took great pride in watching his children grow.
He loved his children dearly, and that love only grew as his family expanded. Becoming a Grandpo was one of his greatest joys in life. He took immense pride in his grandchildren and could always be found in the stands, the audience, or the crowd—cheering them on at every game, gymnastics competition, and school event he could attend. His presence, encouragement, and Dennis laughter made every occasion brighter, and his grandchildren adore their Grandpo beyond measure.
When he wasn’t with his family, Dennis could ALWAYS be found outdoors or on the golf course. He loved to hunt, fish, and golf with his sons every chance he could, creating countless memories on those trips together. His love for the outdoors was matched only by the joy he found in sharing stories and laughter with his golfing buddies, (some might be better off left untold). The stories from those adventures—and the friendships formed along the way—will live on and be retold for years to come. He wanted all of his golfing and hunting buddies to know how much he was going to miss every single one of them.
Dennis will be remembered for his laugh, his compassion, his FIGHTING spirit and will to live. He gave cancer the fight of its life for 20 years, and he won.
Dennis is preceded in death by his parents, Josephine and Florencio Gonzales. Ernie Martinez who was like a second father to him. His brothers, Manuel, Peter and Victor Gonzales.
He is survived by his loving wife and caregiver, Michele, his daughter Denise Gonzales, son Anthony Gonzales & Wife Brittany, son Nicholas Gonzales. His grandchildren, Kilee Mireles, Jaidyn Gonzales, Baby Jennings Gonzales. His second mom, Mable Martinez. His siblings, Roxanne Gonzales (Mitch), and Ronnie Gonzales, Jo Ann Depuy (Donnie), Jerry Martinez (Kim), Ronnie Martinez (Angel), Del Blackburn (Jill). His Mother-in-law, Barbara (The General) Drumm. Father-in-law David Drumm (Kathy). Brother-in-law Robbie (Lori) Drumm. Sister-in-law Jacque (Deryl) Elwyn. As well as numerous nieces, nephews, and his breakfast buddy, Darrin, who he loved dearly.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Glioblastoma Foundation.
The family would like to specifically thank the Harrington Cancer Center (Dr. Ravipati) for the wonderful care she gave him throughout his relentless fight.
“His spirit was stronger than the illness that sought to defeat him — a true warrior until the very end, facing each day with unwavering faith, quiet strength, and boundless grace.”
2 Timothy 4:7 – “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
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