Leo Fidel Gonzales

Leo F. Gonzales, age 78, passed away peacefully at his home in Rupert, ID on the morning of September 21, 2021.

Leo was born in Cortez, CO on June 7, 1943, to Dorfo and Ofelia Gonzales. He was the fourth of 12 children; 6 boys and 6 girls. The majority of his life he lived in Idaho. He was married to Margaret Lucero for 39 years until she passed away in February of 2006. They were the parents of three sons, Fidel Gonzales, Paul Gonzales and Robert Gonzales. He later was married to Nancy Eaton for 10 years until she passed away in October of 2018.

Leo was employed at JR Simplot and retired after 25 years of service.

Leo is survived by his sons, Fidel (Debbi) Gonzales and Paul Gonzales. His siblings, Edith Neaderhiser, Lorraine (Steve) Amen, Betty (Dave) Amen, Sally Faunce, Tom (Judy) Gonzales, Alex Gonzales, Lucille (Martin) Nino and Steve Gonzales, and 9 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, friends and his four-legged, furry companion, his cat, Snowball.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dorfo & Ofelia Gonzales; his wives, Margaret Gonzales and Nancy Eaton; his youngest son, Robert Gonzales; siblings, Eva Archuleta, Bernie Gonzales and Danny Gonzales; Grandpa Juan Miguel Valdez and great grandson, Pierce Gonzales.

Leo loved the time he spent with his family and friends. He loved his TV shows, especially his Lonesome Dove series that gave him so many hours of enjoyment.

Leo loved his dear, Lord, Jesus. He enjoyed spending as much time as possible with his family. Leo always wore his heart on his sleeve for the world to partake of his Christ-like gentleness & love. Leo would open his heart and home to the mentally challenged and those who were in need of a place to stay. Leo was always so caring and would try to help anyone in need in any way he could. Anyone who met this gentleman, walked away knowing they had indeed met someone very special.

Leo will be missed dearly and remembered forever by those who were blessed to know him.

The family would like to thank Horizon Hospice for the care given to Leo, as well as his oldest son, Fidel Gonzales, sisters, Sally Faunce & Betty Amen and all of his other brothers and sisters, as well as the rest of the family, for their love and caring support to make Leo’s life better during his illness, as well as in the latter part of his life.

Funeral will be held 10:00 a.m. Friday September 24 at Hansen Mortuary and a viewing for family and friends will be held 6-8:00 p.m. Thursday September 23 and on Friday, September 24th from 9:00-9:45 a.m. Services are under the direction of Hansen Mortuary

Leo will be buried alongside his two wives and youngest son at Riverside Cemetery in Heyburn, ID immediately following the services. [??]