Oscar "Gonzo" Gonzalez

Oscar “Gonzo” Gonzalez Jr.

Oscar Gonzalez Jr. passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home on the evening of November 11, 2020, surrounded by his loving family and caregivers.  Born in Manhattan, New York on June 22, 1956, to Lucy and Oscar Gonzalez Sr., Oscar grew up on Long Island, New York and graduated from Longwood High School where he met his high school sweetheart: Debra Ann Kayton.  They married on February 23, 1974, enjoying over 46 wonderful years of marriage together.

Oscar was a Retired Navy Veteran, proudly serving his country for twenty years.  His shipmates called him “Gonzo”, as they journeyed together on several ships, bases, and overseas tours. Upon his retirement from the United States Navy, Oscar began a new journey at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida, working there for over twenty-six years.

Oscar had an amazing talent and deep passion for woodworking.  He could make anything you could imagine, and more!  He loved to smile, laugh, and spread kindness, oftentimes going out of his way to help a friend or even ‘anyone’ in need.  He enjoyed swimming, RC cars & planes, exploring, and taking ‘spur of the moment’ trips with Debra, giving them countless enjoyable memories to share over their years together.

Oscar is survived by his loving wife Debra and their four children (and spouses): Oscar Gonzalez III (Olivia), Philip Ramon Gonzalez (Tracy), Christina Marie “Gonzi” Gonzalez, and Nicole Sandra Meldrum (Jason), and fourteen grandchildren: Talton, Cyrus, Joelle, Cierra, Ryan, Megual “Deuce”, Halina, William, and Ava Gonzalez, Bryce, Chaz, Xander, Zane and Logan Meldrum.  Oscar is also survived by his parents: Lucy and Oscar Gonzalez Sr. and siblings: Joe, David, Eddie Gonzalez and Barbara Radigan.

 Oscar has joined his sister in Heaven: Gladys Rossi.

A Memorial Service with Rev. Russell Franklin and Navy Honors will be held Saturday, November 28, 2020, 3PM, at the Broadus-Raines Chapel, 501 Spring St., Green Cove Springs, FL 32043, where the family will receive friends an hour PRIOR to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or to a charity of your choice.