Pedro C. Gonzales, age 81, of Las Cruces was called home to be with the Lord on January 28, 2024. Pedro, was born January 4, 1943 to Patricio and Florencia Gonzales, in Las Cruces, New Mexico. He graduated from Las Cruces High School in 1962. Pedro served in the United States Army from 1964-1966 and also served in the New Mexico Army National Guard for 25 years. He worked for the LCFD from 1966-1989, retiring as a Lieutenant.  He also worked for the LCPS Juvenile Detention Center for 15 years. Pedro enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, sports, dancing and singing, as well as spending time with family and friends.

Survivors include his brother Narciso (Chicho) Gonzales, and sister Dolores Molinar. His two daughters; Michelle Casteel and Mary Helen Ramirez all of Las Cruces. Five grandchildren, Melanie, Brittany and Andrew Ramirez, Jimmy and Jessica Casteel; two great-grandsons, Dominic and Joshua Moreno; and 2 great-great granddaughters, Emery and Ella Moreno as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Pedro was preceded in death by his parents Patricio and Florencia Gonzales; his loving wife Julia M. Gonzales, and his brothers Pablo and Patricio Gonzales and sisters Juliet (Chata) Robles and Sophie Chavez.

A prayer vigil will be held on Monday February 5, 2024 at St. Genevieve's Catholic Church, 100 S. Espina Street. Visitations will begin at 09:00 A.M. Recitation of the Rosary will begin at 10:00 A.M. and the Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 A.M. Military Honors will follow. A graveside service will be held for family and friends on Tuesday Febuary 6, 2024 at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens, 5140 W Picacho Ave. Ceremony will begin at 11:00 A.M.

Serving as casket bearers will be James and Jimmy Casteel, Ralph and Patricio Robles, Rey and Michael Molinar, Honorary pall bearers will be Belsan Chavez, Junshiro Molinar, Andrew Ramirez, Keith Freeman, and Joshua and Dominic Moreno.
In lieu of flowers the family is requesting that donations be made to La Posada-Mesilla Valley Hospice 575-523-4700 in memory of Pedro.

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