Jesus Gonzalez, Sr., affectionately known as "Chune," passed away peacefully while surrounded by his loving family on Memorial Day, May 25, 2026, in Alice, Texas. Born on May 18, 1944, in Benavides, Texas, Chune lived a life marked by dedication, honor, and deep love for his family and country.

Chune graduated from Benavides High School in 1964, proudly earning his place as a Benavides Eagle. He was a standout athlete, known for wearing jersey number 48 on the football field and excelling as an outstanding baseball player and track star. His passion for sports and strong work ethic was evident from an early age.

Shortly after high school, Chune enlisted in the United States Army on March 1, 1965. He served his country with distinction overseas and earned the rank of Sergeant. He was awarded both the Good Conduct Medal and the National Defense Service Medal. His pride in being a veteran of the United States Army was profound and enduring.

Chune spent most of his professional career in the oilfield industry, where he was recognized for his punctuality, hardworking ethics, honesty, and respectfulness. These qualities defined him not only as a dedicated employee but also as a man of unwavering integrity.

Known for his kindness and generosity, Chune was raised with old-fashioned values, strong in faith, and was a lifetime member of Santa Rosa De Lima Catholic Church, where he faithfully attended mass every Saturday evening, which he conscientiously instilled in his children. He also encouraged them to pursue their education and aspire to their fullest potential. He had a warm personality and a distinct fondness for wearing his collection of vibrant Hawaiian shirts.

In his leisure time, Chune enjoyed engaging activities that stimulated his sharp mind and social spirit. He delighted in working on word search puzzles, and bingo with friends during his time at the Nursing Home—where his charm and wit earned him the distinguished title of two-time Valentine King and Homecoming King. An ardent fan of the Dallas Cowboys, he found joy in watching their games with enthusiasm.

The music that truly touched Chune’s heart was the sound of his children calling him “Deddy.” The greatest joys and lights of his life, however, were his grandchildren, who lovingly called him Grandpa. His presence was a source of comfort and happiness to all who knew him.

Chune is survived by his children, Edelia "Edie" (John) Gonzalez-Lemon, Eliza (Manuel) Saenz, Jesus Gonzalez Jr., Quirino Daniel (Alicia) Gonzalez, and John Paul (Tracy) Gonzalez; siblings, Quirino Gonzalez, Jr. and Isabel G. Villarreal; 14 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and two more on the way; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 41 years, Maria Guadalupe "Lupita" Gonzalez; his parents, Quirino and Isabel Gonzalez; siblings, Estevan (Olga) Gonzalez, infant Juan Gonzalez, Refugia Garza, Irene (Ignacio) Guerra, Amanda (Rosendo) Reyna, Lydia (Miguel) Rosales; brother-in-law Roberto Villarreal; and sister-in-law, Dorthy Gonzalez.

Throughout his life, Chune held his family as his proudest accomplishment alongside his honorable military service. His legacy of hard work, love, and commitment to his values will long be remembered by everyone fortunate enough to have known him. Jesus “Chune” Gonzalez’s memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends, cherished always as a devoted father, proud veteran, and a man who lived his life with dignity and grace.

Chune's family will receive condolences on Monday, June 1, 2026, at Treviño Funeral Home Alice, 120 E. Front St., from 9:00 AM until 11:00 AM; with the Holy Rosary to be recited at 10:00 AM. A funeral cortege will depart the funeral home at 11:00 AM to Santa Rosa De Lima Catholic Church, in Benavides, TX, to celebrate Mass of Christian Burial at 12:00 PM. Rite of Committal and Interment with Military Honors will follow at Benavides City Cemetery, where Chune will be laid to rest in the Peace of Christ.

Honoring Chune as pallbearers are Jesus Gonzalez Jr., Quirino Daniel Gonzalez, John Paul Gonzalez, Justin Troy Gonzalez, Johnathan Cole Gonzalez, Jesus Rodolfo Gonzalez, Alejandro Daniel Gonzalez, John Andrew "Tiger" Lemon, Bryan Rodriguez, and John Paul Gonzalez Jr.

To leave your condolences for the family of Jesus Gonzalez, Sr., “Chune”, share your memories, or visit his tribute wall, please go to www.trevinofuneralhome.net.