John Anthony Gonzales (aka "4Speed"), 77

June 26, 1947 – May 17, 2025

John Anthony Gonzales, aka "4Speed,"77, a resident of Westminster, Colorado, passed away on Saturday, May 17, 2025.

He was born on June 26, 1947, in Trinidad, Colorado, the sixth of eight children born to Eusebio and Florence (Montoya) Gonzales. In his early years, John served as an altar boy in the Catholic Church, a reflection of the faith and values that remained with him throughout his life.

A proud U.S. Navy veteran, John served as a Machinist's Mate aboard the USS Roark from 1969 to 1971 during the Vietnam War. He was deeply proud of his service and carried the discipline and patriotism of that time with him throughout his life. After his service, he married the love of his life, Brenda Malagisi, in 1969. Together they were blessed with three children: Christopher, Jamie, and Chad. He lived a life full of love, laughter, and loyalty to his family.

John aka "4Speed" worked as a dedicated truck driver for Boise Cascade for 32 years and found joy and freedom on the open road—especially while riding his beloved trike. He built his custom purple trike in 2001 with the help of many friends. It became his pride and joy, taking him on memorable trips to Texas, Arizona, Florida, South Carolina, Tennessee, and New Mexico, to name a few. He also loved camping and fishing with his family, creating lasting memories around every bend in the road and every campfire. Now, he rides free.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Eusebio and Florence (Montoya) Gonzales; beloved wife, Brenda (Malagisi) Gonzales; his son, Chad Joseph Gonzales; ; and his siblings Silvia Gonzales, Mary Lou Sanchez (Leroy), Ted Gonzales, and Ben Gonzales.

He is survived by his significant other, Colleen Blake; son Christopher Gonzales (Crystal); daughter, Jamie Steele (Jerimiah); grandchildren, Jasmine Rezendes (Matt), Lorenzo Gonzales, DeAndre Gonzales, and DaMarcus Gonzales; siblings, Bob Gonzales (Ermie), Lawrence Gonzales, and Josephine Gonzales; as well as many nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.

He will be remembered for his gift of making people laugh, his unforgettable smile, and the way he could light up a room with both. Above all, John will be remembered for the deep love he had for his son Christopher and daughter Jamie, and for the joy and pride he found in being a grandfather to his grandchildren. His family was his world, and that love will live on through them.

Funeral Service Arrangements

A funeral mass for John Anthony Gonzales will be held on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, located at 4200 Federal Blvd, Denver, CO 80211.

Viewing: 9:30 AM
Rosary: 10:30 AM
Mass: 11:00 AM

Burial with military honors will follow at 1:00 PM at Fort Logan National Cemetery, 4400 W Kenyon Ave, Denver, CO 80236.

A reception will follow the burial. Reception details will be shared at a later time

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