Jose Angel Gonzalez Jr.

Jose Angel Gonzalez Jr., affectionately known among family as Pep, Uncle Pep, and Joe by his friends, passed away at his home in Hammond, Indiana, on January 30, 2025, at the age of 75. Born on July 30, 1949, in Laredo, Texas, to Jose Angel Gonzalez Sr. and Maria de la Luz Gonzalez. He graduated from Hammond High School in 1968. Jose carved a life filled with dedication, service, and love.

A proud veteran, Pep joined the Army and served his country in the Vietnam War, embodying courage and patriotism. He was not drafted but rather volunteered to defend his country. When he returned from Vietnam, he finished the remainder of his contract on reserve and continued his career at Inland Steel where he dedicated 30 years of hard work. He further dedicated himself to the long-term care of his parents.

Pep was a beloved figure, not only caring for his parents but also known for his role in his nieces' and nephews' lives. His generous spirit, unwavering support, and the joy he brought to family gatherings will be deeply missed. He lived life fully, engaging in his earlier years with his passion for racquetball and golf, and never missed marking a birthday, always ensuring his loved ones felt celebrated with a thoughtful card and a warm phone call or lunch at one of his favorite restaurants.

Pep also loved to gather the family together to partake in any sort of game. Whether it be poker, 10,000, chess or just a simple game of checkers, Pep was always ready to play. It was always amazing to witness Pep charm the little ones with his sense of humor and kind, caring nature. 

Jose Angel Gonzalez Jr. (Pep) was preceded in death by his parents, Jose Angel Gonzalez Sr. and Maria de la Luz Gonzalez; sister-in-law, Kathy Gonzalez; and nephew, Tony Gonzalez. His memory will forever be cherished by his siblings, Ricardo (late Kathy) Gonzalez, Ana Maria Gonzalez and Jorge (Sue) Gonzalez; along with his nieces and nephews: Denise Gonzalez, Valerie Gonzalez, Chris Gonzalez, David (Adrianna) Gonzalez, Jamin Gonzalez, and Godchildren/nephews/nieces Joe (Janelle) Gonzalez, Rita Caudillo, Richard Caudillo Jr., Luz (Juan) Torres, Theresa (Jose) Rivas. His extensive family also includes numerous cousins, great-nieces, great-nephews, and a circle of incredible friends whose lives he touched deeply.

Services to honor and celebrate the life of Jose Angel Gonzalez Jr will be held on Thursday, February 27, 2025 at Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 8941 Kleinman Rd (one block south of Ridge Rd) Highland, IN. A Memorial Gathering will be held from 12:00pm to 2:00pm followed by a Memorial Service at 2:00pm with Rev. Jeffery Burton officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:

St Joseph Church Soup Kitchen
5304 Hohman Avenue
Hammond, In 46320
219-932-0702

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time.

As we remember Pep, let us hold close the memories of his laughter, his love, and the indelible mark he has left on our hearts. May he rest in peace, knowing he was dearly loved and will be profoundly missed.

For additional information, please contact Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Konnie Kuiper - Michael Kuiper-Vass by calling us at 219-838-0800 or visiting us at www.hillsidefhcares.com

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