Henry Gonzales

Henry E. Gonzales, age 78, was called to his eternal rest on May 31, 2022, surrounded by his immediate family and Emmett, his loyal canine companion. Henry was preceeded in death by his parents Redolfino and Stella, and parents-in-law Rudolf and Maria.  He is survived by his wife Silvia, sons Jason (Christopher), Adrian (Tarin), adored granddaughters Emery and Quinn, son by heart John Fitzgibbons (Sherill), grandsons by heart Aiden and Anthony. Siblings Rosalie, Don (Florence), Joe (Mickey), Martha, Maria (Chris), Jerry (Jenan), Ray (Bernadette), Tomas (Cynthia), goddaughter Miranda Matthews, godson John Romero, sister-in-law Hildegard Fitzgibbons, brother-in-law Wolfgang, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and his treasured friends.  

Henry cherished his upbringing in Tesuque and his family connections in Cuyamungue, NM. After graduating from the College of Santa Fe and preparing to enter law school, he was called  to military service during the Vietnam era. He met his wife of 50 years while stationed in  Germany. Upon completing his tour of duty, Henry returned to New Mexico, and started his career in NM State Government.  He retired as the New Mexico Deputy State Superintendent of Education. 

Henry never met a stranger and made friends easily. His favorite pastimes shared with family and friends included fishing, racquetball, and travel. Upon his retirement and prior to a 2012/2013 life threatening illness, he spent much time volunteering, including at the Soup Kitchen of his church. Henry will be greatly missed. The family wishes to express their deepest appreciation and heartfelt thanks for the exceptional and compassionate care provided by Henry’s healthcare providers during the past two years.  These include Dr. Herbert and Dr. Jackson, and the always helpful and friendly staff at the Christus St. Vincent Regional Cancer Center; the Christus Palliative Care Practice providers, plus Dr. Eric Anderson and Dr. Nora Gibbons.  The family also wishes to express their gratitude for the loving care and support provided by his Ambercare Hospice Team during the last two months of his life.  

Funeral Services will be held at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Osage Ave, Santa Fe, NM, on Thursday, June 16, 2022. Rosary at 10 a.m., Funeral Mass at 11 a.m., and committal at the Santa Fe National Cemetery at 3:30 p.m. 

A previously planned luncheon celebrating Henry’s life, has been cancelled due to a very recent increase of reported Covid cases in Santa Fe County. The celebration will be held at a later date when it will be safer for family and friends to gather for a meal and visit.  

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a local charity close to Henry’s heart, such as The Food Depot, St. Elizabeth Shelters, Villa Therese Catholic Clinic, or the New Mexico Cancer Foundation which assists patients undergoing treatment.