Violeta Gonzalez, 77, of Galesburg, died at 10:54 p.m. Monday, November 10, 2025, at home with family.
She was born April 16, 1948, in Galesburg, the daughter of Marciano and Ramona (Adames) Mendez. She married Arnold Gonzalez Sr. on August 20, 1966, in Galesburg.
She is survived by her husband of over 59 years, Arnold Sr.; three sons, Arnold (Sharon) Gonzalez Jr. of Galesburg, Vincent (Gretchen) Gonzalez of Galesburg, and Jason Gonzalez of Carbondale; four grandchildren, Madeline, Natalie, Abby, and Jacob Gonzalez; a brother, Raymond Mendez of Galesburg; two sisters, Carmen Pacheco of Galesburg and Pam (Jane Massey) Mendez of Elgin, South Carolina; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Carlos Mendez; and a sister, Antonia Mireles.
Violeta was raised and educated in Galesburg. She was a homemaker who was very family oriented. She loved to cook and will be remembered for her famous Mexican dishes and her meatloaf. She and Arnold enjoyed attending their son’s, then grandchildren’s, activities and sporting events. Violeta was an avid Chicago Cubs and Bears fan.
Visitation will be 12:30 to 2 p.m. Thursday, November 13, 2025, at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral and Cremation Services of Galesburg. Funeral service will follow at 2 p.m. with Rev. Dr. Scott Carnes officiating. Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.h-p-w.com.
