Orlando Gonzales

Orlando Gonzales, age 66, beloved son, brother, colleague, and friend, was called to his eternal resting place on November 26, 2022, surrounded by his family. He entered this world on June 30, 1956, in Artesia, New Mexico. He was raised by his devoted mom, Erminia Romero with his eight siblings. He loved being in a big family. He had a passion for helping people, caring for animals, and playing music. He taught himself to play the acoustic guitar, bass guitar, keyboard, and accordion. He loved Northern New Mexico music. Orlando never met an animal in need that he didn't love and rescue. He rescued any fur baby that needed him. At the time of his passing, he had 7 devoted cats that miss him dearly. He rescued dogs as well and once nursed an opossum back to health and continued to feed him regularly. Orlando was always kind and helpful, so law enforcement just seemed like the right career. He started off as a Roswell, NM police officer for 3 years before joining the Texas Department of Public Service where he served his community in the dispatch department for 22 years. He was very talented in communications and calming down a difficult situation. He always gave 110 percent, encouraged and mentored his co-workers, and made the whole office laugh. He was beloved by everyone who worked with him. When not working, playing music or rescuing animals, Orlando could be found cheering on the Dallas Cowboys and the Dallas Mavericks.

He leaves behind his mother, Erminia Romero of Roswell, NM; his brothers Nino Gonzales of Carlsbad, NM, Varo Gonzales (Dorothy) of Claycomo, MO, Tino (Lena) Gonzales of Roswell, NM, Larry (Mona) Gonzales of Clovis, NM, and Adolfo Romero of Roswell, NM; his sisters Irene (Michael) Turner of Artesia, NM, Rebecca Gonzales of Albuquerque, NM, and Laura (Rick) Hernandez of Roswell, NM; numerous nieces and nephews; his DPS work family; and many dear friends. He joined in heaven his brother, Ross Gonzales.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, November 30, 2022, 11:00 AM at Hughes Family Tribute Center, 9700 Webb Chapel Rd, Dallas, TX 75220. A reception will follow.

Orlando will be dearly missed by so many.