It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of our beloved son, father, and brother, James Lawrence Gonzales in East Helena, Montana in July 2024. Born on August 17, 1973 in Fontana, California, we will remember him always for his infectious smile, kind heart, and love for his children, family, and friends.
James was a happy child who loved to play cowboys and Legos, though his sisters often persuaded him to play Barbies with them. He was involved in Boy Scouts and was a gifted piano student. One of our earliest memories of James was his obsession with his Snoopy stuffed animal, which led him as an adult to get a beagle who he named Priscilla. His love for animals was apparent throughout his whole life and he often said the best dog he ever had was his black labrador, Heidi.
A typical teenager, James seemed to put minimal effort into his schoolwork and maximum effort into having fun. Too smart for his own good, he explained to his mother that he didn’t need to do homework since he could ace his exams without it. In high school, he joined the wrestling team and spent most of his free time with his girlfriend Stella. He went on to attend Pomona College and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in psychology.
Anyone who knew James, knew his greatest love was for his family, especially his three boys. He was a devoted father who gave countless hours to their Boy Scout activities, tee ball games, wrestling matches, musical performances, and other school events. He enjoyed spending time with them fishing, playing board games, and going to the movies. He was also very close to his own father who lived with him and helped raise his boys.
James is survived by his three sons, James Jr., Nicolas, and Elliot, his parents Santiago Gonzales and Annie Mendez, and his sisters Yvonne Gonzales and Suzanne Vitela.
There will be a mass to celebrate his life on Friday, July 19 at 10:30 am at Saint Irenaeus Catholic Church in Cypress, CA and a memorial service on Saturday, July 20 at 10:00 am at Good Shepherd Cemetery in Huntington Beach, CA.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) in his honor: https://donate.nami.org/fundraiser/5632202
Service Schedule
Celebration of Life
10:30 a.m.
Friday July 19, 2024
Saint Irenaeus Catholic Church
5201 Evergreen Ave
Cypress, CA
Memorial Service
10:00 a.m.
Saturday July 20, 2024
Good Shepherd Cemetery
8301 Talbert Ave
Huntington Beach, CA
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Yvonne Lamb says
Sending love, light, prayers, and healing to James family. And to James in heaven know you are deeply loved.
Yvonne L
Bitterroot OA
Laurie Moe-Alberti says
I am very sorry to learn of the loss of James. He was a joy to work with. He was committed to carrying the message of hope.
Derik Reed says
I just learned of James’s passing. He was my friend here in Helena. He will be greatly missed.
Patricia Hogan says
James always brought delight into the room with him. I am so sorry for his passing, and my deep condolences to his family. James, you left us too soon!
Rhonda Stoddard says
I recently learned of James’ passing. He was a kind and thoughtful person. I will keep his memory alive in my heart. I am grateful our paths crossed on this earth. Rest peacefully in the sunlight of the Spirit. Rhonda CFalls
Alice W, Oregon says
I am so very sad to hear about James. My condolences to his family, especially his boys. He spoke about them often. He loved them very much.
Rest in peace my friend.
Lisa S. says
I recently hear the news about James and feell his loss so much. James was such kind and gentle man. He had such a loving heart and will be missed by many.
Beverly M says
What a kind and genuine man James was…I am glad to have known him. May he rest in peace and may his family find comfort in gentle memories.
Lori Brodie says
My condolences to James’s sons and family. He was a generous and kind man who loved to help others.
terry lopez says
I just found out about his passing. He was a good kind man who had a big heart. I will miss his big hugs.
Diane Dunlop says
I am among the privileged to have known this amazing gentleman. I first met James in NM, we were on a bus to old town and I just had to sit with him to tell him how much I loved his spirited smile. James shared lots about his boys, a proud dad who taught me much about the rewards, the responsibility and the absolute gift it is to be a parent. A wonderful dad. James I miss you bud, but I know you found that freedom that you so searched.