Robert Ovando Gonzalez, a proud United States Navy veteran of World War II and beloved family patriarch, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2026, at the age of 99.

Born on the West Side of San Antonio to Maria and Urbano Gonzalez, Robert was one of eleven children. Raised during the hardships of the Great Depression, he developed a lifelong resourcefulness, sharp intellect, and a strong work ethic. At age 17, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy to serve his country during World War II, rising to the rank of Seaman First Class. Following his honorable discharge, Robert returned home and dedicated 42 years to civil service as a civilian employee at Kelly Air Force Base, working as a radar repairman, electrician, and jet engine part calibrator.

In 1964, he married the love of his life, Alicia. Together, they raised four children, to whom he taught the values of self-reliance and practical skill. Robert was a true lifelong learner who loved reading technical books, working with his hands, and watching Saturday night boxing matches. An avid outdoorsman, he found his greatest peace gardening at home or casting a fishing line on the coast in Corpus Christi, a tradition passed down from his own father that he proudly shared with his sons well into his 90s.

Robert is survived by his wife, Alicia Gonzalez; his sister, Esther Olsaver; his four children: Robert Gonzalez, George Gonzalez (and his wife, Hida Thajeb), Elizabeth Griffith, and Roger Gonzalez (and his partner, Peter Waldeck); his five grandchildren: Joshua Cheatham, Cameron Cheatham, Nicholas Gonzalez, Johann Gonzalez, and Caleb Gonzalez; and his three great-grandchildren: Mackynzie Cheatham, Maci Cheatham, and Millie Cheatham.

He will be deeply missed but remembered always.