David Orlando Gonzales

David Orlando Gonzales, age 68 of Elkhart, passed away unexpectedly on November 24, 2020 at Elkhart General Hospital.  David was born April 16, 1952 in San Antonio, Texas to the late Orlando Gonzales and Gloria Ann Rodriguez. Following his high school graduation, he enlisted in the US Navy, serving honorably from 1969- 1971 during the Vietnam war.

On May 11, 2002, he married Carol Manley in Dunlap, Indiana.  She survives, along with his children Brian (Andria) Gonzales, Robert Gonzales, Amy Gonzales, Jon (Nicole) Gonzales, all of Elkhart, Michael (Amber) Gonzales of South Bend and Ricky (Stephanie) Gonzales of Osceola, their mother Sue Gonzales of Elkhart and his step children Marty Matney of Lake Zurich, Illinois, Amanda (Joseph) Diaz of Goshen, and Kathy (Clifford) Clayman of Carpentersville, Illinois.  Surviving as well are  31 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his children David Joseph Gonzales and Carrie Ann Gonzales and a step son Roy L. Matney.

A celebration of David’s life will be held from 2-4 pm Saturday, December 5, 2020 at the American Legion Post 308 in Osceola.  Cruz Family Funeral Home and Cremation Service is assisting with the arrangements.

David was employed as a maintenance supervisor with Scott Brass for over 21 years before taking the same position at Winona Powder Coating and then retiring 5 years later.  In his spare time, he enjoyed entertaining his friends and family, whether it was playing his guitar or singing karaoke where he was known as “Dangerous Dave” Gonzales.  He also enjoyed being the DJ for several weddings, riding his motorcycle, and supporting Jimtown and Notre Dame football.

David was also a longtime volunteer for the Osceola Fire Department and the St. Joseph County Civil Defense, as well as a longtime member of the American Legion Post 308 in Osceola.

Most of all, David loved his family.  He cherished the time he was able to spend with them and had the pleasure of documenting their fun times as the “official” Gonzales family photographer.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the United Cancer Services of Elkhart.  To leave an online condolence for David, share a memory his family, or light a virtual candle, please follow the links provided on the Tribute Wall tab above.