Anthony Gonzales

Anthony "Tony" Gonzales, age 96, passed away on September 8, 2026.

Born in Downers Grove, Illinois, to Joseph and Felisitas Gonzales, Tony was raised with the values that would stay with him throughout his life: work hard, take care of your family, and find contentment in the life you have built.

In May of 1959, Tony married Arlene Gonzales in Chicago. Together, they built a life and raised their five children, Grace (Jim) Kreasch, Michael (Missy) Gonzales, Susie Szczender, the late Mary Gonzales, and Steve (Wendy) Gonzales. The family made their home in Chicago before moving to Oak Forest in 1969.

Tony was a professional truck driver for Herroit Trucking, a career well suited for a man known for his strong work ethic and determination. He believed in putting in an honest day's work and providing for the people he loved. Hardworking and strong spirited, Tony was from a generation of men who did not need much recognition for what they did. They simply got up and did what needed to be done.

When he was not working, Tony was a homebody at heart. He was perfectly content piddling around in his garage, always finding something to work on, fix, adjust, or simply keep himself busy.

But of all the roles Tony held during his 96 years, being Grandpa may have been one of his finest. He was the Pied Piper to his ten grandchildren, who naturally seemed to gather around him. In time, that family grew to include several great-grandchildren, giving Tony the opportunity to watch the family he and Arlene began so many years ago continue through another generation.

Tony leaves behind the legacy of a hardworking man, a devoted husband and father, and a grandfather whose presence will remain woven into the memories of the family who loved him.

Tony was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Mary Gonzales; his parents, Joseph and Felisitas Gonzales; and his siblings, Jenny, Lucielle, Marge, Al, Delores, Frank, and Alice.

Visitation for Anthony "Tony" Gonzales will be held Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Vandenberg Funeral Home in Tinley Park, with a funeral service immediately following at 12:00 p.m.

Interment will be private.