Robert Gonzales, age 89, formerly of Blue Island, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on July 3, 2026.

Born on October 10, 1936, in Blue Island, Robert was the beloved son of the late Domingo and the late Josephine Gonzales. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Rachel "Carol" (née Garcia) Gonzales, who passed away in 2015.

Robert is the loving father of Debbie (Steven) Johnson and Bob (Laurene). He is the cherished grandfather of Megan (Kyle) Royce, Alyssa (Jason) Kolodzinski, Arthur (Stephanie) Johnson, Jesse (Alexandra), and Timothy. He is the proud great-grandfather of Elizabeth Royce, Aria Kolodzinski, Jesse Jr., and Roman.  Robert is the devoted brother of the late Adele (the late Ignacio) Esparza, the late Jenny Vela, the late Caroline (the late Richard) Barba, the late Antonio Gonzalez, Emily (the late Frank) Valadez, Ophelia (the late Basil) Marquez, Alice (Bill) Sweeney, Carmen (the late Tom) Morton, the late Rudy Gonzalez, Geri (the late Rudy) Zamora, and Ronald (Cheryl) Torres. He is also a dear brother-in-law to many, a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews, and a cherished Nino to many godchildren. Robert also leaves behind many extended family members and friends who will forever treasure his memory.

Robert proudly served his country in the United States Army. A talented athlete, he enjoyed playing semi-professional baseball with the Latinos and the Troublemakers. He dedicated more than 35 years of service to UPS before his retirement.

A lifelong Chicago Cubs fan, Robert was affectionately referred to by family and friends as “Mr. Cub.” He found great joy cheering on his beloved Cubs, whether creating treasured memories at Wrigley Field or gathering at home with family and friends to watch the games. Above all, Robert's greatest happiness came from the time he spent with those he loved.

Visitation for Robert will be held on Tuesday, July 14th, from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Krueger Funeral Home, 13050 Greenwood Avenue, Blue Island. Visitation will continue on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Alsip.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Special Olympics Illinois would be greatly appreciated.