David Gonzalez
April 27, 1956 ~ June 16, 2024
David Gonzalez, a beloved husband, father, and grandpa passed away on June 16, 2024, at the age of 68 after a long battle with Parkinson’s Disease and a rapid battle with Cancer. He was born on April 27, 1956, in South Omaha, NE, to Maria and Baudelio Sr. Gonzalez. He was one of 8 children, 2 brothers and 5 sisters. He often would joke he had no middle name because his parents were too poor to afford one. This didn’t stop him however from enjoying a life full of love, dedication, and passion.
As a devoted husband, David was married to his high school sweetheart, Francine Gonzalez for 45 beautiful years, creating a partnership built on love, respect, and unwavering commitment. Their bond was one of admiration and support, a true testament to the power of love that endures through the tests of time and hardships. Over the course of these years, they lived in South Omaha and Council Bluffs before settling down in Bellevue, NE where they raised their three sons. David was a family man, who enjoyed a good old family vacation frequenting locations in Colorado, Florida, Missouri, Iowa, and South Dakota. His dedication to his family was unwavering, and the love he shared with his children and grandchildren was a source of immeasurable happiness and fulfillment in his life.
In his educational pursuits, David attended St. Bridget’s and St. Joseph’s Elementary School, Paul VI High School, and the University of Nebraska at Omaha, majoring in Broadcast Journalism. His passion for storytelling and communication guided him throughout his career, where he excelled as a KETV Producer/Director. David’s talent shined brightly as he managed the switchboard and directed live newscasts, leaving a mark on the industry that will be remembered for years to come.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, David was a man of diverse interests and hobbies. He found solace in watching westerns, particularly those featuring John Wayne, and indulged in true crime shows that piqued his curiosity. His passion for reading historical fiction, bird watching and spending quality time with family brought him immense joy, creating lasting memories that will be cherished by all who knew him.
Sadly, David was preceded in death by his parents; Maria and Baudelio Sr. Gonzalez and son, Samuel Gonzalez, leaving a void in the hearts of those who loved them dearly. David’s legacy of love, kindness and resilience lives on through his surviving family members, including his wife, Francine Gonzalez; sons Marty Gonzalez (Audrey), and Chris Gonzalez (Theresa); grandchildren Rowan Gonzalez, Emyra, Abigayle, Katy, and Mady Corey, Bailey Orsi; siblings Bill Gonzalez, Baudelio Jr. “Mike” Gonzalez (Carol), Laura Gonzalez, Sylvia Gonzalez-Nibbe, Irma Mahoney, Martha Flores (Tony), and Felicia Gonzalez; and numerous nieces and nephews.
As we mourn the loss of David Gonzalez, let us remember his life with gratitude and admiration. His memory will forever remain in our hearts, a beacon of light that guides us through difficult times and reminds us of the power of love and family.
May he rest in peace, knowing that his spirit lives on in the hearts of those who loved him most.
Visitation: Friday, June 21, 12:30 ~ 1:00 p.m. followed by a
Memorial Service at 1:00 p.m., both at the Bellevue Memorial Funeral Chapel.
To view a live broadcast of the service, click the link below.
https://boxcast.tv/view/david-gonzalez-memorial-service-wvh2glwn70gwa32wzjd8
Place of Rest: St. Mary Magdalene Cemetery
8 Comments
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of our dear friend Gonzo.
We’ve been friends for a long long time.
He was my best man at our wedding 45 years ago.
He was always fun to be around and made everybody laugh with his wry sense of humor!
Rest in peace, my dear friend.
Say hi to Brad and everyone for me.
Gonzo and I were in college together. We work in television together at UNO and KETV. I had the pleasure of participating in his wedding. Dave was a very smart and talented soul. His reading list and recommendation were always inspiring. I loved our discussions of the latest movies. He loved meeting at the Smoke Pit for lunch with Stamp, Eggert, Rock, Adams and other friends of ours. We hadn’t seen each other in a while because of his health.
Rest in peace my brother.
Dave was a good man. He was funny, he was caring and he was loving. He also was a great Director of newscast and photographer as well. Dave was always friendly and very helpful to me.. I met him when he started at KETV and watched him grow quickly in the area of Production And photography. As with live television, working in that area could prove a little exciting and frustrating. Dave took every opportunity to learn something new and grow in his profession.
I’ll miss him as a good friend. Some people have a lot of good friends some people don’t. Dave was always there for me and would do anything to help me out. I’ll miss him dearly.
Gonzo was a wonderful human being. During my early years at KETV, he made me feel so welcome and helped make this place feel like home to me. He would check on me to make sure my day was running smoothly. I will never forget his kindness, and I am so sorry to hear about his passing. May he rest in power, and my condolences to his family.
Though I haven’t seen Dave in years, the days at PVI bring great memories. Francine, I’m so sorry for your loss. You will be in my thoughts and my prayers. Much love
We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of such a great individual. I cannot put into words how sorry we are for the entire Gonzalez family. We are here to support you during your sorrow and share our condolences. Keep your heads held high and be proud of the man that he was.
With love,
Eric, Kallie, and Bristol Dollinger.
Dave was a kind and gentle soul, a rare thing in television. I was always happy to see him when I came in for my shift because I knew it was going to be a good night in the control room. Dave had it locked down! He was funny, smart and caring.
I am so sorry for your family’s loss. Remember the good times and always there is a angle in heaven watching over everyone..
Deb Hebl
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