Hector R. Gonzalez

Hector R. Gonzalez of Joliet, age 91, passed away at Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care on May 19, 2026. He was born to Francesca Rivera in Mexico City, Mexico on June 4, 1934.

Hector immigrated to the United States as a youth and earned the right to be a proud U.S. citizen. He believed in a strong work ethic, and he lived those beliefs on a daily basis as a proud member of the Chicago Painter’s Union for many decades. His professional legacy lives on in the many landmark buildings that he had a hand in creating and maintaining. His strong hands helped to shape the Wrigley Building, the CNA Center, Willis Tower, and the Chicago Board of Trade buildings to name a few. His skilled hands were as useful with any tool as they were with his brush and roller. He was a true “Jack of all Trades”, often disappearing for a few minutes at his home before reappearing with the perfect part or piece that someone needed to finish a project. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 68 years Herminia Gonzalez (née Ramirez), a dependable father to his six children, and a beloved grandfather and great grandfather to many. In recent years, he maintained his commitment to caring for his dear wife and continued to perform seemingly incredible feats of maintenance around his and his families’ homes given his advanced age. His family will always be in awe of his strength, determination, and his kindness and connection, especially with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Darlene, his parents, his brothers Simeon and Ramiro, and his sister Noemi.

Hector is survived by his loving wife of 68 years Herminia Gonzalez (née Ramirez); his children Hector “Ray” (Kim), David (the late Karen), Diane (the late Cole), Donna (Robert), and Larry; his grandchildren Hector Simeon, Anthony R. (Christine),Robert, Michelle, Steven, Christopher (Elizabeth), Jennifer, Stacey (J.P.), David Alex, Thomas, Tina, Elena, Irene, Louis, John, Theresa, and Donald; along with forty-one great and great-great grandchildren; his siblings Mari Elena, Miguel, and Braulio; and his special nephews Fernando (Vinnia) and Mauricio (Barbara). Many extended family members and other loved ones also survive.

Funeral Services will be held privately by the family and cremation rites will be accorded. Hector’s remains will be kept in the protective custody of his loving wife for the foreseeable future.