Antonio D. Gonzalez age 75, passed away on July 19, 2024.  He was born October 11, 1948, in Rio Hondo, TX to Cleofas and Marco Antonio Gonzalez.

Antonio "Tony" Gonzalez worked as a steel worker at Inner Steel and National Oil Wells in Santa Teresa, New Mexico.  While being employed there, he was a machine shop and crane operator.  Outside of work, he enjoyed construction and carpentry work.  Volunteering countless hours, he helped the late Father Rufo Prado in the reparation and construction of many projects at San Luis Catholic Church in Chamberino, New Mexico.

He played for over 40 years along with his wife, Carlota "Carla" Gonzalez at the San Luis Catholic Choir.  Not only did he sing in the choir, he was also involved in Grupo Amistad, Grupo Apostolados, and a Grupo Cursillista.  As an Apostolado, the group visited homes to pray for the sick and dying.

One of Antonio's talents was singing and composing songs.  He would create his songs by humming the notes and rhythm first and then add the lyrics.  He was the composer and lyricist to "Chamberino Cumbia," "Pobre Borracho," "Señora," "La Nogalera," "Mi Vieja Guitarra y Yo" and many more.  Antonio also composed many Christian songs that were played in mass services that came from his heart.

His greatest passion was the sport of boxing which began when he was 4 years old. Once he had his family, he passed his love of boxing and talents to his 4 children.  Coach Tony guided and mentored his daughter, Delia "Chikita" Gonzalez, to a WIBF's World Batan Flyweight Championship.  With the help of his family, the Delia "Chikita" Boxing Gym welcomed eager learners both females and males of various ages.

Antonio had his share of talents and passions, but his biggest love was his family.  He loved his grandchildren and great grandchildren deeply and was proud of the family he formed with his wife.

His wife and children would like to thank family and friends for their love and support.

Special thanks to Father Alejandro Reyes Cardenas, of Immaculate Heart of Mary Cathedral in Las Cruces.  Thank you Father Alejandro, for blessing him with his last rites, prayers, love, and words of healing, encouragement, and compassion.  Antonio passed away very peacefully with a smile while being surrounded by his family.

Those left to mourn him include his beloved wife Carlota, sons Johnny Gonzalez and Ruben Gonzalez, daughters Delia Gonzalez and Araceli Gonzalez.

He was preceded in death by his parents Cleofas and Marco Antonio Gonzalez.

A prayer vigil will be held on Friday July 26, 2024 at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, 1240 S Espina Street. Visitations will begin at 02:00 P.M., recitation of the Holy Rosary will begin at 03:00 P.M., and the Funeral Mass will follow.  Cremation will follow and inurnment at Holy Cross Columbarium will be at a later date.

Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Baca's Funeral Chapels of Las Cruces and Sunset Crematory, 527-2222. Your exclusive provider for "Veterans and Family Memorial Care." For online condolences logon to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com