Juan Alberto Gonzalez Afanador

In Loving Memory of Juan Alberto Gonzalez

 

Sunrise: May 7, 1941 – Sunset: July 2, 2025

 

With grateful hearts and deep sorrow, we celebrate the life and legacy of Juan Alberto Gonzalez, 84, who passed away on July 2, 2025, in St. Cloud, Florida. Born on May 7, 1941, in Utuado, Puerto Rico, Juan was a beloved husband, devoted father, cherished grandfather, faithful pastor, and known for his generosity, humor, and devotion to family and ministry.

 

Juan’s life was a testament to unwavering faith and dedication. A proud and humble servant of the Lord, Juan lived a Spirit-filled life rooted in Christian values. After years of diligent study and spiritual formation, he answered God’s calling to shepherd others as a dedicated pastor. His ministry was marked by compassion, humility, and a sincere desire to see souls saved and lives transformed.

 

In his professional life, Juan worked tirelessly as a grower for Variety Growers. A hardworking man, cultivating not only vibrant seas of flowers but relationships marked by integrity and deep respect among his peers.

 

Upon retirement, he continued sowing seeds of wisdom and encouragement wherever he went. Juan’s joy was found in the simple pleasures God provided such as woodworking, often crafting guitars by hand, gardening under the sun, and sharing time and stories with his grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

 

Juan was married for over 64 wonderful years to his beloved wife, Esmeralda Gonzalez, who preceded him in death. Their marriage was a beautiful example of commitment and love, grounded in faith and mutual respect. Together, they raised a family rooted in love and faith.

He leaves behind a family who deeply loved and admired him.

 

Children: Marilyn Gonzalez and husband Orlando Navarro of Neptune, NJ. Juan A. Gonzalez, Jr. and wife Zulma Gonzalez of Neptune, NJ. Hidelfonzo (Andy) Gonzalez of Wilton Manor, FL. Isabel Gonzalez-Rodriguez and husband Luis Rodriguez of St. Cloud, FL

 

Grandchildren: Chamary Lemus, Orlando Navarro II, Marivelis Navarro, Maria Isabel Navarro, Walter Lopez, Joshua Lopez, Hector Lopez, Jr., Jamilet Rodriguez, Luis Rodriguez, and Jo’ani Rodriguez

12 Great-grandchildren, each a part of his living legacy

 

And Siblings: Aida of Puerto Rico, Ester of Florida and Nilsa of New Jersey.

 

He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom knew him as a source of encouragement, faith, and laughter

 

Juan is reunited in glory with his wife Esmeralda, his parents Alfonzo Gonzalez and Edelmira Afanador, and his dear brother Wilfredo Gonzalez.

To those who knew him, Juan leaves a legacy of kindness, integrity, hard work, and unwavering faith. He lived not for worldly recognition but to glorify God through his deeds, his words, and his enduring example.

 

He taught those around him the value of hard work, prayer, and kindness. His presence was a blessing, and his legacy will live on through his children, grandchildren, and all those he touched with his life and testimony.

 

As we celebrate Juan’s life and mourn his passing, we hold tight to the comfort of scripture and the assurance of the resurrection. We know that this is not the end, but the beginning of his eternal worship in the presence of his Savior.

 

The family of Juan Alberto Gonzalez extends their heartfelt gratitude to all those who have offered prayers, support, and comfort during this time. Your love and kindness have been a great blessing.

The family will receive friends between 12 pm and 1 pm, followed by funeral services in the Oak Ridge Funeral Care Chapel in Winter Haven followed by interment in Auburndale Memorial Park.

 

“Dad, wherever you are, you are gone, but you will never be forgotten ”

 

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant..." — Matthew 25:21