Ronald Royce Gonzales

Ronald Royce Gonzales, also known as "Monk" in his younger years, departed this life on January 10, 2020 due to a brief illness. He was born in El Campo on April 7, 1957 to John and Alva Gonzales.

He grew up in Glen Flora and attended school  in Wharton with the graduating class of 1976. He married the love of his life and friend from high school Darlene Boatwright on April 1, 1995. He was proceeded in death by his parents and older brother Richard. He is survived by his wife Darlene, daughter Shelby Lynn(Jay), grandchildren Audrina Leanne, Braxston Jase, and Maddox Jay, sisters Rebecca Jimenez of Glen Flora, Terry Morales (Mike) of Eagle Lake, Debra Cervantes (George) of Houston, in laws Doree Kieborz of La Porte, Donna Brown (John) of El Campo, Charlie Boatwright (Karen) of El Campo, and mother in law Mary Frances Boatwright of Glen Flora. He was very close to all of his nieces and nephews, Misty, Michael (Shelly), and Timothy Morales all of Austin, Jacob Bartley (Ressa) of Wharton, Casey Partin (Brandi) of La Porte, Jeremy Partin (Brittney) of Santa Fe, Brandi Partin of La Porte, Jason Brown (Kristin) of El Campo, Melissa Tarver (Derick) of El Campo, Marissa Brown of El Campo, Justin Brown of El Campo, Cody Boatwright (Codi) of El Campo, and numerous great nieces and nephews. Ronnie was especially close and a mentor to his older nephews, Jason, Jacob, Cody, and Casey teaching them values of life and work ethics which they carry with them today.

He loved riding his Harley with friends, spoiling his grandchildren (who could do no wrong in his eyes), dancing, the Dallas Cowboys (while most other family members were Texan fans), bar-b-queing, fishing (mostly to satisfy his wife), family gatherings, and keeping everyone in line. His special love was playing sports with "his Brax" whether it be baseball, football, or basketball and giving him a ride on the lawn mower, which he always made wear a Feedlot cap, eye protection, and ear plugs (what a sight to see).  His love, patience, and guidance will be dearly missed but not forgotten.  Pallbearers include Jacob Bartley, Abel Martinez, Billy Canales, Larry Bailey (Beetle), Patrick Wearden, and George Cervantes. Honorary pallbearers include his biker buddies, bar patrons (The Feedlot), and everyone who had the pleasure of knowing Ronnie. Spread your Harley wings, babe, dad, papa, brother, uncle, friend. The gates of Heaven are open for you. We love you now and always will!!!

Visitation will be held on Sunday, January 12, 2020 at the Chapel of Wharton Funeral Home with a Rosary recited at 7 p.m.  A funeral service will be held on Monday, January 13, 2020 at 10 a.m. at Wharton Funeral Home with Father Antonio Perez officiating.  A rite of Committal and Burial will follow at Glen Flora Cemetery in Cresent.

Funeral services under the direction of Wharton Funeral Home.  Condolences may be left at whartonfuneralhome.com.