Obituary of Manuel Charles Gonzalez

Manuel C. Gonzalez was born in Round Rock, Texas on May 27, 1936. As one of 11 children, he worked as a migrant worker throughout his childhood. He and his family were blessed with musical talents that led to performances in local establishments and events. His work and music were interrupted at the age of 22 when he served in the U.S. Army for 2 years while stationed in Korea. After returning from Korea, he married his sweetheart Ofelia Trevino.

A year after their marriage, the first of six children was born. His passion for music and entertaining was now ready to be passed to his own family. With the 12^th of December celebration known as “The Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe” Mariachi Guadalupano was born. For 27 years, the mariachi group became a passion shared by his family and appreciated by the local community.

While maintaining the musical career of Mariachi Guadalupano, Manuel sustained a full-time position with the City of Austin in the Water and Waste Water Division and worked his way up to Inspector for new construction. He worked with the city for 28 years before retiring.

Some of his accomplishments with Mariachi Guadalupano included traveling to Germany in support of USO shows, performing at Our Lady of Guadalupe Basilica in Mexico City and winning the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Mariachi Competition. Manuel and his family spent countless hours traveling and performing throughout Central Texas representing the Catholic Church and Our Lady of Guadalupe while also sharing their Mexican heritage.

A strong faith was instilled in Manuel’s family. He would remind them that “All things are possible with God.” Prior to every commitment, he would gather the group to pray for safe travels and a quality performance. His Catholic faith was at the center of his family in both word and deed. He celebrated life through his music. He was an ambassador of his Catholic faith and used music to touch the lives of many.

Manuel Gonzalez was preceded in death by his parents, John Gonzalez and Margarita Charles Gonzalez; his son, Manuel Gonzalez Jr; his brothers, Andres Gonzalez, Joe Gonzalez, John Gonzalez, Isabel Gonzalez and Frank Gonzalez; his sisters, Patsy Gonzalez, Guadalupe Gonzalez and Grace Gonzalez.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Ofelia Trevino Gonzalez; his loving children, Rosemary (Baslan) Omar, Ofelia (John) Williamson, John (Chrisel) Gonzalez, Veronica (Craig) Martinez and Michael (DeLisa) Gonzalez; grandchildren, Kayleigh Gonzalez, Shadia (Kiellor) Conn, Josef Omar, Isaac Gonzalez, Antonio Gonzalez, Gabriella Gonzalez, Aaron Gonzalez, Aidan Gonzalez and Chloe Martinez; his daughter-in-law Veronica Gonzalez; his siblings, Mary Reyna and Jesse Gonzalez; and numerous other loving relatives and friends.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm with recitation of the Holy Rosary beginning at 7:15 pm on Tuesday, May 1, 2018 at Mission Funeral Home – South Side, 6204 South First Street; Austin, TX 78745.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 am on Wednesday, May 2, 2018 at San Jose Catholic Church, 2435 Oak Crest Ave; Austin, TX 78704. Interment will follow at Assumption Cemetery with Military Honors. Services are entrusted to Mission Funeral Home – South Side.

Please visit www.missionmemorials.com to leave condolences and order flowers.