In Loving Memory of Jose Cruz “Joe” Gonzalez
Jose Cruz Gonzalez, lovingly known to all as “Joe,” passed away on the morning of January 15, 2026, in Houston, Texas, at the age of 57. He was born on January 23, 1968, in Reynosa, Mexico, to Cruz Gonzalez and Adela Ambriz Gonzalez. He was the fifth of six children.
Joe was a true free spirit. He loved to laugh, and even more, he loved to make others laugh. A good time to him meant being surrounded by the people he loved, enjoying very good food (he was absolutely a foodie), a nice cold michelada, and music that fed his soul. Whether it was Santana’s “Black Magic Woman,” Ozzy’s “Crazy Train,” or Sade’s “No Ordinary Love,” playing in the background, Joe could not resist the pull of music. He was no professional dancer, but when the beat took over, he never failed to break out the funniest, most unforgettable dance moves that filled the room with laughter.
Joe was a hard worker who took pride in his craft. Whatever job he committed himself to, he gave it his all, perfecting his skills through dedication and perseverance. His dreams were never about wealth or extravagance. Until the very end, his dream remained simple and pure. He wanted to be rich in love. He dreamed of owning a big piece of land, building a large home, and living peacefully surrounded by his children and grandchildren.
He was a devoted father to his five children: Vanessa N. Gonzalez, Joseph G. Gonzalez, Amanda V. Gonzalez, Adam Gonzalez, and Cruz Gonzalez. Being their father was one of the most meaningful roles of his life.
Joe had an especially soft heart for his grandchildren. He loved them deeply, and seeing them always brought the biggest smile to his face. He leaves behind seven grandchildren whom he adored: Karisma, Andrew, Bella, Mia, Samantha, Demi, and Ariana.
He is also survived by his siblings: Celsa Gonzalez, Francisco Gonzalez, Isabel Gonzalez, Jorge Gonzalez, and Judith “Judy” Gonzalez.
Joe was a good man. He was not perfect, but perfection was never what mattered. What mattered was his presence, his laughter, his love, and the way he made people feel when he was around. His absence will be deeply felt, but his spirit will live on in the memories, music, laughter, and love he leaves behind.
“And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.”
— Revelation 21:4
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