OBITUARY: Albert "Beto" Gonzalez Jr.

Albert M. Gonzalez Jr. was born on Nov. 9, 1944, to the late Albert Sr. and Esperanza Gonzalez in Elsa, Texas. He passed away on Feb. 7, 2020, in Shafter with his family by his side.

Beto made the move to California in 1962 and, in 1969, eventually settled in Shafter, where he would build his life and family. Our dad was a truck driver for over 50 years. The majority of those years he was an owner/operator. The last few years he drove for McCaslin Trucking until his retirement. His favorite pastime was going to Tachi Casino, purchasing lotto scratch offs at Fastrip/Big Stop and making new friends.

Our father had the biggest heart which was demonstrated by his willingness to go out of his way to always help family and friends in need. Beto was someone who lived his life to the fullest. His engaging personality was like a magnet to everyone that crossed his path. He always took great pride in his work ethic and especially his family. Our father was very humble and kind, and it was evident by the many people who loved him.

He is survived by his spouse of 55 years, Frances “Kooky” Gonzalez; his six children, Albert Gonzalez III, Regina Arriaga (Eddie), Corinna Shumate (Eric), Susie Richardson (Greg), William Contreras (Sara) and Teena Gonzales (his favorite nurse and nursing assistant Emmah, Teena’s daughter); his 15 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. He also had six siblings, Esperanza, Eddie, Anna, Arnold, Fabian, Armando (deceased) and Leonel (deceased).

My father was a great man who will be missed more than words can describe.

Visitation/Rosary on Thursday, Feb. 13, from 5 to 9 p.m., at Basham & Lara Funeral Care, 343 State Ave., Shafter. Mass and graveside services Friday, Feb. 14, at 9:30 a.m. at St. Therese’s Church, 300 W. Lerdo Hwy., Shafter. Reception immediately following the graveside services at Basham & Lara Funeral Care.