Jesus E. "Poncho" Gonzales
January 27, 1952 — February 27, 2017
Jesus E. “Poncho” Gonzales, age 65, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Greencastle on Monday February 27, 2017.
Born January 27, 1952 in Holbrook AZ he was the son of the late Jose and Rosalita (Espinoza) Gonzales. He married Nancy R. (Reynolds) Gonzales in 1980 and they remained married until her passing in 2006.
While serving in the Army, Ponch worked in aviation maintenance and was stationed in Korea two different times before moving to Greencastle, where he continued working in aviation at Fairchild. He then transferred to transportation for the Army Reserves. He retired from the military as a Sergeant First Class, after 21 years of service. Poncho then received an associate’s degree in computer science after his retirement from the United States Army.
He was a life member at numerous veteran’s organizations, including: Harry D Zeigler VFW Post 6319, Greencastle and Frank L Carbaugh American Legion Post 373 Greencastle, where he served as the Post Commander in the past. He was also a member of the Veterans of Vietnam Wars Post 41 and AmVets Post 224, both in Chambersburg. He was a life member of Mount Pisgah Masonic Lodge No. 443. Additionally, he was a member of the Greencastle Sportsmans Association and the National DAV.
As a Deacon of Praying Time Ministries in Greencastle, Ponch participated in many of the churches programs and Sunday services. He credited the church for helping him to become a better person and he loved them all as family.
Ponch had an infectious smile, a great sense of humor and he was known for his mischievous attitude and booming voice. He was very giving and lovable to all who knew him. He enjoyed traveling, even if it was just to ride around for nothing at all or to drive across the country. When he wasn’t traveling to visit, he loved to spend time with family and friends here at home. His other hobbies included glass etching, wood burning, and leather crafts.
In addition to his wife and parents, Ponch was preceded in death by his brothers Ramon and Conuto, and Uncle Tony Espinoza.
Surviving family are his son Jesus Ramon Gonzales and wife Tina Gonzales, Greencastle, one granddaughter Abigail Gonzales, Greencastle, one step grandson Terrence Dixon, Greencastle, a sister Adelita Gonzales, Arizona, a niece Marlo Montoya, Arizona, a nephew Jose Puentes, Arizona and his beloved companion Jamie “Candie” DeBruhl.
A memorial service will be held Friday March 3, 2017 at 12:00 PM (Noon) at Harold M. Zimmerman and Son Funeral Home 45 S Carlisle St Greencastle. There will not be a viewing and the memorial service will include a masonic service and military honors by the Chambersburg V.F.W. Honor Guard. Interment will be at Arlington National Cemetery, at a later date.
At Poncho’s request, in lieu of flowers, please make a donation in honor of Jesus “Poncho” Gonzales to: The Veterans Affair Medical Center at 510 Butler Ave Martinsburg WV 25405 and/or Operation Once in a lifetime at www.operationonceinalifetime.com and go to current needs tab then click on story 4/donate or call 254-289-3057. His memories will always be cherished and online condolences may be expressed at www.zimmermanfh.com