Epifanio Gonzales

Intermountain Catholic

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SALT LAKE CITY — Epifanio "Eppie" Gonzales, 90, died Nov. 7, 2011.

Gonzales was born Jan. 8, 1921, in Colton, Calif. He married the love his life, Maria de la Luz ("Lucy") Cabrera on June 1, 1946. He volunteered for the U.S. Army and received four Bronze Stars, a commendation for his service in the Tunisian Campaign, and was awarded the Silver Star after saving the lives of numerous U.S soldiers from the Texas 36th Regiment in the Battle of Cassino at the crossing of the Rapido River in Italy.

Gonzales became a parishioner of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Mission and was adopted as one of Father Collin’s "kids." He dedicated his free time to serving the parish with his many talents. He was a CCD teacher for over 45 years, RCIA instructor, Men’s Club, Knights of Columbus, Eucharistic minister, lector, choir member, Scout Committee chairman, parish painter, Third Order Carmelite and coffee klatch member, along with numerous other volunteer ministries.

Gonzales is survived by his wife; seven children: Randall (Tamera), Shirley (Roger) Mares, Cecilia (James) Lyons, Vincent, Alex (Kerry), Laura (Daniel) Adams, Brian (Kristene); 19 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

A funeral Mass was celebrated at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish.