Jose "Joe" Miguel Gonzalez

Jose Miguel Gonzalez 

June 17, 1931-October 28, 2024

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Jose Miguel Gonzalez, 93, known affectionately as "Joe".  Jose was born on June 17, 1931, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, though raised in the town of Santurce by his mother, Maria Cristina Perez, and his father, Miguel Gonzalez.  Jose passed away peacefully on Monday, October 28, 2024, at his home in Palm Bay, Florida with his family by his side.  

Joe was a quiet man with a strong presence, deeply devoted to the love of his life and beloved wife, Santa Rosa, whom he married in New York City in 1952. They would have celebrated their 72nd wedding anniversary on December 20, 2024. Together they built a life filled with love and laughter, and their home was always a place of warmth and joy.  

Jose served in the United States Army as Private First Class from February 3, 1953 at Camp Kilmer, New Jersey to 1955 at Fort Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska.  Joe's heart belonged to his family.  He is survived by his four daughters- Marilyn (husband Fred), Evelyn, Jeannette, and Alice (husband Frank) - along with six grandchildren: Freddie, Melanie (husband Jon), Michael (wife Evelyne), Brian (wife Emily), Dylan, and Rachel (husband John), as well as, three great-grandchildren:  Annie Rose, Douglas Nash, and Dominic Louis, with another on the way, Benjamin Michael.  He also leaves behind his younger sister, Maria Ines (husband Jose), and a multitude of cousins, nieces, and nephews who will cherish his memory.  

He was predeceased by beloved family members: Miguel Gonzalez and Maria Cristina Perez (parents); Olga, Elba, Nereida, Roberto, Luis (siblings); Douglas Smith and Armando Palmesi (sons-in-law).  

Throughout his life, Joe was a "jack of all trades."  He was clever and full to the brim with knowledge gained through all his life experiences: plumber, contractor, all-around handyman, manager of a clothing factory, owner of a dry cleaner and laundromat, and tailor - he could fix or build anything.   

Jose's dedication to his work was matched only by his love for music, especially the old Spanish boleros of Trio Los Panchos.  He found joy in organizing social dances with live music, fishing, cars, playing cards (canasta), and enjoying a good game of dominoes with family and friends.  

Joe's favorite meals were those prepared by his beloved wife, Santi, and he took pleasure in simple moments at home surrounded by his loved ones.  He had a special fondness for classic television shows like Bonanza, Mannix, and Perry Mason, often unwinding with these series after a long day.  

A loving and kind-hearted man, Joe's creativity and generosity knew no bounds.  He had a talent for making everyone feel important and loved, and his presence would light up any room, especially when his wife entered.  Joe's legacy is one of family, love, and cherished memories, forever etched in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be missed dearly.  

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Disabled American Veterans (DAV) in Jose's name.  

A funeral service for Jose will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Wednesday, November 6th, 2024 at Ammen Family Cremation and Funeral Care- Palm Bay Chapel; 950 Malabar Road SE, Palm Bay, 32907. A viewing and visitation will take place at 9:30-10:30 A.M before the service.  

Jose's final resting place will be at Cape Canaveral National Cemetary in Mims, Florida.