Richard Gonzalez, Sr.

Richard Gonzalez, Sr., 89, of Galesburg, Illinois, died peacefully early Monday Morning at Seminary Manor, Galesburg, with his family by his side.

Richard was born January 17, 1936 in Galesburg, the son of Guadalupe and Loretta (Chia) Gonzalez. He attended St. Joseph Academy and graduated from Corpus Christi High School in 1954. On January 30, 1961 Richard enlisted in the US Army. He was honorably discharged on January 29, 1964. Richard married Mary Lou Ramirez on April 20, 1968 in Moline, Illinois. She preceded him in death on April 7, 2024.

Richard is survived by his son, Richard A. “Ricky” Gonzalez, Jr. of Galesburg; one brother, Alfred C. Gonzalez of Galesburg; two sisters, Carmel Gordon of Henderson, Nevada and Tensie Gonzalez of Galesburg. Along with his wife and parents, Richard was preceded in death by one sister, Teresa Owens.

A proud veteran, Richard was a member of Ralph M. Noble American Legion Post #285; he was lifelong faithful catholic and member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church and Father J.O. Hunt Knights of Columbus Council 556. He worked for 35 years for Gates Rubber Corporation, retiring in 2001. In his free time he enjoyed spending time with family and friends.

Visitation will be 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, October 26, 2025 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. The rosary will be prayed at 4:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be 10:00 a.m. Monday at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church. Father Jeffrey Stirniman will officiate. Burial will be at St. Joseph Cemetery, Galesburg with military honors conducted by the Knox County Honor Guard. Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.