Pedro Gonzales Jr.

Pedro "Pete" Gonzales Jr.

Pedro "Pete" Gonzales Jr., 62, of Joshua, Texas, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, on September 13, 2026.

Born on August 6, 1964, in Dallas, Texas, to Apolinaria De La Rosa Gonzales and Pete Jerry Gonzales, Pete lived a life defined by devotion to his family, his community, and the many young lives he helped shape. He was a beloved husband, father, Pawpaw, brother, coach, mentor, and friend whose kindness, generosity, and steady presence left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.

Pete shared 24 years of marriage with his wife, Swanda "Marie" Gonzales. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, love, family, and laughter.

For more than 20 years, Pete worked at Bell Helicopter Textron Inc., where he was known for his dedication, strong work ethic, and the lifelong friendships he formed along the way. Many of those friendships became an extension of his family.

Pete had a deep love for youth sports and a passion for helping young people grow both on and off the field. He coached baseball with Diamond Hill Little League, coached youth football and baseball, and served on the Joshua Youth Sports League Board. Through sports, he taught countless children the importance of teamwork, discipline, respect, perseverance, and believing in themselves.

Above all else, family was Pete's greatest joy. He was a proud father and an extraordinary Pawpaw who adored his grandchildren. They were truly the light of his life. Whether he was cheering from the sidelines, sharing stories, joking around, or simply spending quiet time together, he had a way of making every moment meaningful.

Pete also had a lifelong love for Hot Wheels. His collection reflected his playful spirit and his ability to find joy in the simple things. It was one of the many ways he connected with children and adults alike and brought smiles to those around him.

Pete was preceded in death by his parents, Apolinaria De La Rosa Gonzales and Pete Jerry Gonzales; his brothers, Trinidad Gonzales and Steve "Bear" Gonzales; and his grandparents.

He is survived by his wife, Swanda "Marie" Gonzales, and his children: Travis "Eli" and Calley of Rio Vista, Texas; Justin "Jordan" Tyler and Kirsten of Joshua, Texas; Jacob and Brayden King of Burleson, Texas; Ditha Nicole "Moo Moo" Gonzales and her spouse, Logan, of Weatherford, Texas; and Shirley "Sissy" Gonzales and her husband, Andres Martinez, of Joshua, Texas.

Pete also leaves behind two additional children, Pete Jerry and Stephanie.

He is further survived by his sisters, Sarah Walton and her husband, Charles, and Rachel Gonzales and her husband, Roberto; his sister-in-law, Lisa, wife of his late brother Steve "Bear" Gonzales; and his daughter-in-law, Leksi.

He also leaves behind lifelong friends who were like family to him, including John Henson and his wife, Sister; Dennis Henson and his wife, Sheila; Sunny Montes; and Clay Comacho.

Pete was a proud Pawpaw-or "Pop Pop," as Walker lovingly called him-to ten grandchildren: Layken, Kasen, Cayden, Cooper, Emma, Tyler, Graham, Travis Jr. "T.J.," Carsyn, and Walker Cordale. Each of them brought him immeasurable pride, happiness, and love.

He also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, teammates, coworkers, former players, and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Pete will be remembered for his generosity, steady faith, warm smile, sense of humor, and the way he made people feel welcomed, valued, and cared for. His legacy lives on in the lessons he taught, the lives he touched, and the love he shared so freely with his family, friends, and community.

The Gonzales family is deeply grateful to the hospice staff, friends, neighbors, coworkers, and all who offered prayers, comfort, and support during Pete's final days and beyond. Your kindness has been a lasting source of strength.

Pete's love will remain in the hearts of all who knew him, and his memory will continue to inspire the many people whose lives he made brighter.