Long time Monte Vista resident Robert “Chale” Gonzales, 82 passed away February 10, 2018 in his home surrounded by his loving family.

Chale was born November 13, 1936 to Agapito and Paz Gonzales in Del Norte, CO. Chale married Juanita Sierra-Jaramillo in 1961 and was married until 1986. He was later introduced to his companion Diane Lara of the family home.

Chale was hardworking, self-employed, devoted, loving father, brother and friend. Chale  had many hobbies which included  hunting, fishing, gardening, hauling wood and being in the mountains. Chale was always happy with a welding rod in his hand inventing new things; whether it was for his tractor, wood splitter or home, he always found a way to get it done. Chale loved watching western movies, especially ones with John Wayne. Family was most important to Chale; he spent any and all time he could with them.

Chale was survived by his wife Juanita Gonzales Del Norte, CO companion Diane Lara of Monte Vista, CO his children Frances (Lawrence) Martinez of  Albuquerque, NM; Mitchell Lopez of  Denver, CO; Grace (Michelle) Gonzales of Del Norte, CO; Robert “Allen” Gonzales (Dana Dunsworth) of  Monte Vista, CO; Patrick Gonzales (Eleanor Gallegos) of Monte Vista, CO; Joey “Deanie” Gonzales of Monte Vista, CO; Kathy (Ronnie) Trujillo Pueblo CO; Marcella Jaramillo Del Norte; John A. Jaramillo of  Del Norte, CO; Johnny (Geri) Jaramillo of Grand Junction, CO; Michael (Richelle) Jaramillo of Del Norte, CO; Alexander Lara (Deyhle Adkins) of Mora, NM; Lalo Lara of Pueblo, CO; Amberly “Pigeon” Lara ( Johnny Sisneros) of Monte Vista, CO; Guillermo Gonzales (Jeannie Lobato) of Monte Vista, CO. siblings Vera Gonzales of Denver, CO; Helen Gonzales of Denver, CO; Rosa Gonzales of Denver, CO; Cecilia Gonzales of Denver, CO; Felix (Alice) Gonzales of Denver, CO; Ernest Gonzales of Denver, CO; Juan Gonzales of Monte Vista, CO; 20 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren and  numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Chale was preceded in death by his parents Agapito and Paz Gonzales, Brothers Carlos Gonzales, Baldimar Gonzales, sisters Emma Gomez, Antonia Gonzales, Mary Maez, Juana Gomez, daughter Sadie Garcia and grandson Nazareth “ Nazzie” Lara.

Chale will be greatly missed by all who knew him!!

A Vigil Service with Recitation of the Rosary will be held on Thursday, February 15, 2018 at 7:00 p.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Monte Vista, CO. A Memorial Mass will be held on Friday, February 16, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. also at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Monte Vista, CO. Cremation was chosen and burial services will be at a later date.