Juan Gonzales, Sr.

Juan Gonzales, Sr., 61, of Topeka, passed away, Sunday, March 6, 2005 at his home.

He was born December 19, 1943 in Plateros, Zacatecas, Mexico the son of Narcisso H. and Guadalupe Z. Blea.

He was married to Marcela Saenz September 23, 1963 Fresnillo, Zacatecas, Mexico. She survives. Other survivors include four daughters, Niomi Burget and husband Rick, Topeka; Veronica Carnahan and husband Bruce, Topeka; Jane Biswell and Husband David, Silver Lake, KS; Maria Petersen and husband Sean, Topeka; one son, Juan Gonzales, Jr. and wife Michelle, Topeka; one brother, Arturo Z. Blea, Topeka; and 14 grandchildren.

Mr. Gonzales retired from the United States Army in 1984 following 22 years of service. He was a Vietnam veteran and had served in Korea on the DMZ. During his service he was a Drill Sergeant, a Chemical Engineer, and a Combat Infantryman. Mr. Gonzales fought in the Battle of the Hill of Dong Ap Bia "Hamburger Hill". He retired as Sergeant Major. During his four tours in Vietnam he was awarded four Purple Hearts, the Silver Star, and the Bronze Star.

He was a member of Post #400 Veteran's of Foreign Wars.

Mr. Gonzales will lie in state after 12:00 noon Wednesday at the Newcomer Family Funeral Home where the family will greet friends from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. Wednesday. Mass of Christian Burial will be said 1:00 p.m. Thursday at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Burial will follow at Penwell-Gabel's Memorial Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions to the American Cancer Society, the American Lung Association or to Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. To leave a message for the family please visit www.newcomerfamily.com.