Manuel Rivas Gonzalez

Manuel Gonzalez, 99, entered into the eternal paradise on January 1, 2025, in Laredo, Texas. He was born on January 5, 1925, in San Antonio, Texas, the son of the late Sostenes and Cipriana Rivas de Gonzalez. He lived a long and fruitful life, that included an honorable service in our nations military, the United States Army, as a Private First Class, being one of the few remaining veteran's of World War II. Due to his honorable and admirable service, he received the EAME Campaign Medal with 2 Bronze Stars, as well as the Purple Heart and World War II Victory Medal. He was Honorably Discharged on February 5, 1946, in Camp Fanin, Texas, and resided in Gary, Indiana, where he worked for the steel mill during the post-war boom. He returned to Laredo, Texas in the 1980's to reside until his passing. He met the love of his life, Carmen Nava Gonzalez, who preceded him in death in 2017. They were married for 58 years. He is further preceded in death by his brothers: Modesto Gonzalez and Abelardo Gonzalez.

Left behind to cherish his memory are his children: John M. Gonzalez (Trinidad), Carmen Gallegos, Gloria Baez (Richard), Manuel Gonzalez Jr., Oscar Gonzalez (Theresa), Sergio N. Gonzalez (Sonia), Daniel Gonzalez (Alejandra), Ernesto N. Gonzalez (Nelda), 24 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, a great number of great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

The family will receive condolences on Saturday, January 4, 2025, from 5 to 9 pm at Hillside Funerals and Cremations, where a Vigil for the Deceased and Rosary will commence at 7 pm.

Visitation will continue on Sunday, January 5, 2025, from 7 am until 12 noon in the chapel. A Liturgy of the Word will commence at 12 noon.

The procession will depart the chapel at 12:45 pm to the Laredo City Cemetery-Veteran's Section for the Rite of Committal and Military Honors to be rendered at 1:15 pm.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Hillside Funerals & Cremations; 310 W. Hillside Rd.; Laredo, TX 78041; 956.724.6060