Ralph Gonzalez

alignjustifyRalph F. Gonzalez left this earth and stepped onto the streets of Heaven early Saturday morning, Sept. 12, 2009. Ralph was originally born in Santa Clara, Cuba, on June 16, 1949. He came to the United States as a young boy, and after passing through New York and Mississippi, made his longtime home here in Baton Rouge. Ralph followed in the steps of his late father, Porfirio Gonzalez, who worked for Gonzalez Jewelry and Manufacturing, and was a jeweler and craftsman. During the last few years he began working extensively on hand engraving guns and knives as well as working with sheets of silver to create beautiful jewelry. He was a gemologist and a collector of antique guns, stamps and coins. He was a lover of history and held a deep appreciation for his Cuban culture. Ralph was a man with a hilarious sense of humor. To be in his presence was to laugh. He had a child-likeness of spirit that endeared him to all who called him a friend. His passing marks the end of a very difficult health struggle, a struggle that his sister, Esther Stagg, helped him with every step of the way. He is also survived by another sister, Maria Ferrer; a niece and nephew, Michelle and Victor Rodriguez, of Houston: and his beloved little nieces and nephew who brought him so much joy, Rebecca Stagg, and Gabriella, Christina and Victor Rodriguez Jr. Ralph's joy and dynamic personality will be tremendously missed by his family. The family holds in their heart that Ralph held the love of Christ dear in his heart and they will all one day be reunited. Viewing to be held at Resthaven Funeral Home, 11817 Jefferson Highway, on Monday, Sept. 14, from 9 a.m. until memorial service at 10 a.m.

Visitation

Resthaven Funeral Home
11817 Jefferson Highway
Baton Rouge, LA  70816
Monday, September 14, 2009
9am

Service

Resthaven Funeral Home
11817 Jefferson Highway
Baton Rouge, LA  70816
Monday, September 14, 2009
10am