Robert "Bob" W. Gonzalez

Robert (Bob) Gonzalez, 66, of Cantonment, FL, passed away on October 31, 2018 surrounded by those who he loved the most. Bob bravely fought a battle with cancer and he now walks whole again with our Lord and Savior. Bob served in the Army and retired from the Alabama Air National Guard after 22 years of service in the military. He was a crew chief on the KC-135 Air refueling planes. He served in the Kosovo conflict, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. He also worked on the International Space Station at Redstone Arsenal. Most recently, Bob provided upkeep and maintenance at Grandview Assisted Living which he most enjoyed. He was dearly loved by the residents who voted him employee of the month. His charm and quick wit brought them joy on the most difficult days. Bob will be most remembered for his love of people. He made his home welcome to all as he watched NASCAR, cheered for Alabama or listened to classic country. Bob was an avid golfer who also loved hunting and fishing. He never missed a moment for a punch line or an opportunity for a high-five. Bob was a friend to everyone that stepped onto his back porch. Bob is preceded in death by his parents, Manuel and Myrtle Redd Gonzalez; his siblings, Glenna, Burrll, Ann and Larry; his grandchild, Brody. He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Deborah (Debbie) Vinson Gonzalez and his son Steve Gonzalez (Heather); his stepsons whom he loved as his own, Ricky Eggart, Steve Eggart (Laura) and Billy Eggart (Betsy); his nine grandchildren who called him “Pap Pap,” Cale, Lola, Bella, Jackson, Della, Marshall, Lilly, Emma and Jacob; his nephew, Tommy Gonzalez; his nieces Patty Blaydes and Tammy Longen; his brother-in-law, Jim Divens; and numerous family and friends. Funeral Services will be Friday, November 9, 2018, at 10:00 AM, at Faith Chapel Funeral Home North. Visitation will be from 5:00 to 8:00 PM on Thursday, November 8, at the funeral home. Brother Dale Patterson, a long time pastor and friend of the family, will be officiating. Cremation will be handled by Faith Chapel Funeral Home and a private service will be held at Barrancas National Cemetery at a later date. In the words of his beloved wife, Debbie, “His magnetic personality attracted everyone to his circle. He loved people and delighted in surrounding himself with a crowd. You could not be around Bob without participating in the fun. He will be remembered forever with love and with a smile by his family and friends.”

Tributes

Robert "Bob" W. Gonzalez

May 12, 1952 - October 31, 2018