Bernard T. Gonzales

Bernard “Bernie” Gonzales, 75, Oshkosh, passed away unexpectedly after a short stay at Aurora Medical Center. Bernie was born December 26, 1942, in Oshkosh, the son of Bernard and Genevieve (Nowak) Gonzales. He married Jane Grancorbitz February 15, 1975, at Martin Luther Church, Oshkosh, and they recently celebrated 43 years together. Bernie was in the grocery business for 25 years, starting in various jobs throughout the store and working his way up the ladder to management. His first job was at National Foods, then Kohl’s and Prescott’s in town. After his time in grocery Bernie became a salesman for insurance. The American Family Bernie Gonzales Agency was born and served the Oshkosh community for 25 years until Bernie retired in 2008.
Bernie enjoyed many things in life and realized 22 years ago his dream of living on the lake. The sights and sounds of living on the water were invigorating for Bernie. At his lake home he had a ‘man cave’ in the garage where he enjoyed tinkering around, listening to music, watching Westerns and the Packers. When random dogs passed the house Bernie was always waiting with treats for them. He also enjoyed fishing and boating, and socializing with his buddies at the Lakeshore Club. Bernie was a member of Martin Luther Ev. Lutheran Church.
Bernie is survived by his loving wife, Jane; children: Craig (Denise) Gonzales and Cristin Gonzales; grandchildren: Trevor Daniels and Josh and Kierra Gonzales; mother-in-law, Arleen Grancorbitz; a sister-in-law, Pam Gonzales; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; father-in-law, Leroy Grancorbitz; a sister, Joyce Lemay; brothers: Milton (Corona) and Arlen Gonzales; a brother-in-law, Larry Grancorbitz.
A memorial service for Bernie will be held at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, August 16, 2018, at Martin Luther Ev. Lutheran Church, 1526 Algoma Blvd., Oshkosh. Visitation will be held at the church from 3:30 p.m. Thursday until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to the Salvation Army or the Oshkosh Humane Society.
Bernie will be remembered for the stories he told, the songs he sang and the stories he left for us to tell about him.
Bernie’s family would like to express sincere thanks to the staff of Aurora ICU for their attentive care and compassion.