Mario Gonzalez

Mario Gonzalez Sr. age 76 of Hammond, Indiana, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2025, at the William J. Riley Memorial Residence, Hospice of the Calumet in Munster, Indiana.
Mario was born on February 11, 1949 in Laredo, Texas to Felix and Rosa Gonzalez. He graduated from East Chicago Washington High School in 1967 and soon began his career at Inland Steel. In 1968, he proudly enlisted in the United States Army, serving two tours in the Vietnam War. Upon his honorable discharge in 1971, Mario returned to Inland Steel, where he worked in the Central Mechanical Pipe Shop until his retirement in 2005, completing more than 25 years of dedicated service. In 1972, Mario married the love of his life, Ernestina, went on to have 2 children, Illiana and Mario Jr, and enjoyed 53 beautiful years of marriage.
A man of many talents, Mario discovered his love for cooking later in life, taking classes at Ivy Tech in East Chicago alongside his brother John. After retirement, he continued to work part-time for Bank Calumet, Cabela’s, and Geminus Corporation as a chef.
Mario was an avid Chicago Cubs and Green Bay Packers fan, known for his sharp sense of humor and his big, generous heart. He especially cherished his role as a grandfather. Though he adored all four of his grandchildren, he shared a special bond with his only grandson, Jack. The adventures and memories they created together will forever be treasured. Mario’s love for animals was another reflection of his kind spirit—throughout his life, he cared for many beloved pets and is now reunited with them.
Mario is survived by his loving wife, Ernestina Gonzalez; his daughter, Illiana Hansen; his son, Mario (Christina) Gonzalez; his granddaughters, Olivia, Mara, and Alessandra Gonzalez; and his grandson, Jack Hansen. He is also survived by his siblings, Gilbert Gonzalez, Esperanza (Peter) Villarreal, Alicia Montalvo, John (Juanita) Gonzalez, and Helen (Richard) Hernandez.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Felix and Rosa Gonzalez; his siblings, Amelia Garza and Jesus Gonzalez; his niece, Margaret Garza; and his nephews, Hector Garza and Matthew Villarreal.

A wake will be held at Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 8941 Kleinman Road (one block south of Ridge Rd) Highland, IN on Thursday, October 23, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, October 24, 2025, at St. John Bosco Catholic Church, 7113 Columbia Ave. Hammond, IN 46324, with viewing at 10:00 a.m. followed by mass at 10:30 a.m.

Interment to follow at Ridgelawn Cemetery Gary, IN.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the William J. Riley Memorial Residence – Hospice of the Calumet Area, 600 Superior Avenue Munster, IN in honor of Mario.
Mario will be remembered for his laughter, kindness, and unwavering love for his family. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

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