Antonio Gonzalez, 86, of Tampa, Florida passed away on August 13, 2022 at the home that he shared with his daughter, Maria Gonzalez-Jenkins and son-in-law Robert Jenkins following a duration of dialysis treatments for 10 plus years. He was born on March 6, 1936 in Utuado, Puerto Rico, the son of Josefa Heredia Montalvo and Agapito Gonzalez Martinez. In 1956, he married the “love of his life”, Carmen M. Santiago, they shared 45 wonderful years together. The pure love they shared has served as an example for those that witnessed it.

Antonio is survived by his loving family: 4 sons; Jose Gonzalez, Reynaldo Gonzalez, Gerardo Gonzalez and Luis Gonzalez; 2 daughters, Maria Gonzalez and Iris Gonzalez; 24 grandchildren, 41 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren. Antonio is preceded in death by his loving wife, Carmen Santiago, his parents and 2 siblings.

Antonio worked in the agriculture field for the Government of Puerto Rico and during his early years he volunteered his services at the church where he and his family witnessed his love and caring nature towards others. During his life time he lived for many years in Puerto Rico, New York, Ohio, New Jersey and finally residing in Tampa, Florida. His hobbies and interests were baseball, fishing, he loved playing dominoes (he was tough to beat), spending quality time with family, making people laugh, he loved to cook and was an exceptional teacher, he taught his family how to make some of the most delicious Latin cuisine including his famous arroz con dulce. He loved listening to music and watching old western movies.

Some of his achievements were providing for his family, taking care of his loving wife, seeing his family accomplish their goals. His proudest achievement was teaching his family the love of Christ, being a prime example of it and seeing it resemble in the lives of his loved ones. Antonio was very grateful to have many years of his life surrounded by his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren.

Antonio was unique for his willingness to always help those in need. Always being a positive role model, loving husband and father to his children. His sense of humor will be missed.

The family acknowledges and would like to give thanks to his family and friends, that loved him wholeheartedly. A special thank you to the family that devoted themselves throughout the years to provide care and giving him all of the little things his heart desired from his food cravings, the special outings and the quality time that was spent with him.

Memorial contributions may be made directly to Maria Gonzalez, his daughter.

Antonio left an awesome legacy that is admirable. He was loved by many and will be remembered always in our hearts.

Antonio’s funeral will be held Saturday, August 20, 2022 at 11AM at Grace Family Church, 8610 Temple Terrace Highway, Temple Terrace, Florida with Pastor Christian, to officiate. The family will receive friends at the church prior to the service beginning at 10:30 AM.

Every one will then assemble at the Orange Hill Cemetery, 4900 East Chelsea Street, Tampa, Florida for the committal service with Pastor Dwane Cardenas to officiate. There will be NO procession to the cemetery from the church