Rene Gonzalez Jr.

We are heartbroken to share that Rene Gonzalez, Jr. (59) decided it was time for a new adventure on October 28, 2026. He passed away at Mercy Health St. Vincent Medical Center after he was recognized by many family members, friends and healthcare workers during an Honor Walk as he went to the operating room. At the end of his life Rene made the ultimate sacrifice of being an organ donor. His journey in life may have ended, but he will live on by blessing the people who received his organs and helping with research for illness and treatment.

Born on October 19, 1967, in Toledo to Deacon Rene and Marylou (Barron) Gonzalez. He grew up alongside his siblings Theresa and Melissa. He graduated from Gibsonburg High School and Vanguard Vocational. He later graduated from The New England Culinary Institute with a degree in Culinary Arts.

Throughout his life, Rene worked as a fine dining chef. After years of traveling the country cooking, he decided to come home to be with family. Later in life he worked at INOAC and Tanks Meats. Outside of work Rene enjoyed cooking for his family and friends, cheering for The University of Michigan football, chilling out with his faithful buddy Julio the dog and riding his prized Harley Davidson motorcycle.

Rene leaves behind his parents Deacon Rene and Marylou(Barron) Gonzalez, sisters Theresa Aldrich (Brian Farr) and Melissa Frost (Daniel). Nephews Michael Frost (Abriana and family) and Daniel Frost, niece Larissa Frost and countless family and friends.

The family would like to thank all the family and friends who have been there to support all of us in Rene’s post-accident journey these last 2 1/2 years.

Join us to celebrate his life at a funeral mass to be held on Friday November 20th at 11:00am at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church in Gibsonburg, Ohio. There will be a luncheon to follow at the parish center.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks to please consider donating in his name to:

St. Michael the Archangel Church
317 E. Madison St.
Gibsonburg, OH 43431
or
Life Connection of Ohio
480 W. Dussel Dr. Suite 155
Maumee, OH 43537