Tony “Tut” Gonzales

59, of Phoenix, passed peacefully Sunday October 9, 2016 following a year-long battle with that unrelenting, iron-jawed cur called Cancer. A mad, sinister animal that cannot always be repelled or evaded, no matter how strong or fast its victim. And strong, Tut was. He portrayed this imperviousness not only to pain but to the judgments and expectations of others, even up to the end. An attitude that may have tested some, but was also respected by those who knew and loved him; his family and friends who surrounded and smothered him with love as he left this place to join his beloved parents, Paul and Carmen Gonzales, in a land free of burdens or anguish.

A lifelong resident of Phoenix, Tut was a dedicated employee of the city for more than 30 years and finally retired in 2015. He conveyed dedication beyond just his job. He was an ardently loyal Oakland Raiders fan and was only more committed to driving his siblings crazy and spending cherished time with his granddaughters.

He is survived by his daughter Jessica Gonzales and two granddaughters Leah and Raya; his sisters Anna Castro and Sylvia Beaulieu; his brothers Daniel Gonzales and Paul Gonzales; and many other family members and close friends. His existence on this earth is etched deeply in their hearts and minds, for in some form or fashion, he made a profound impact on each of these individuals. Their souls were touched, and such a feeling that goes deeper than mortal flesh, cannot die. It is eternal, like his free-flying soul and every unique and timeless memory we have of Tony “Tut” Gonzales. Visitation will be from 5:00 – 8:00 P.M., with a Rosary at 7:00 P.M., Thursday, October 13, 2016 at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 A.M., Friday, October 14, 2016 at St. Gregory Catholic Church, 3424 N. 18

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Avenue, Phoenix. Interment will follow at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery.