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Francisco Gonsalez, 83, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his daughter’s home, surrounded by family, on March 6, 2025.
He was born on June 25, 1941, in Mission, Texas, to Felipa (Morales) Gonsalez, the youngest of five children. From a young age, he took on the responsibility of helping care for his brother, Adolfo. In his late teens, Francisco moved with his family to Powell, Wyoming, to work in farming.
Shortly after arriving in Powell, he met Tula Juarez and instantly knew she was the love of his life. After only a few months of dating, he proposed, and they were soon married. Together, they built a beautiful life, raising five children: Elsa, Frank, Ray, Lupe and Rosa. Their marriage spanned 63 years, sharing every joy and challenge side by side.
Francisco worked as a farmer for several years before becoming a mechanic for International Harvest. Eventually, he found his true calling in the oilfield, working as a pumper until he retired in his early 70s. A devoted family man, he spent decades traveling to watch his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren compete in sports. He once reflected that he had spent 50 years cheering on his family from the sidelines, a commitment he cherished deeply and wouldn’t change for anything.
Weekends often found him in gyms or a pitch state wide. He and Tula would take Sunday drives to the mountains and picnic. Family was his greatest joy, and he firmly believed that faith and family can get you through anything. A man of strong values, he was known for his hard work, generosity and unwavering belief in others. He instilled a strong work ethic in his children and was always willing to lend a helping hand. A devout Catholic, he was an active member of the Knights of Columbus and dedicated to serving his community. He was an avid Powell Panther fan, but his heart was later stolen by the Worland Warriors and the Wyoming Cowgirls. He never missed a game or a chance to talk about his beloved #24s.
Francisco also had a heart for helping those in need. Through his rental properties, he provided many families with affordable housing, giving them an opportunity to get ahead in life. He found purpose in ensuring his loved ones never lacked for anything and extended that same kindness to those around him.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Tula; his brothers, Emilio and David Morales; and his sister, Clementina Soto.
Francisco is survived by his children: Frank (Ranee) Gonsalez of Worland, Ray (Lisa) Gonsalez of West St. Paul, Minnesota, Lupe Gonsalez, Elsa (Del) Olson and Rosa Gonsalez, all of Worland; his brother, Adolfo Morales of Powell, Wyoming; his grandchildren: Jayde (Salvador) Madrigal, Devin (Kelsi) Gonsalez, Tommi Olson, Taylor Gonsalez, Nicole Gonsalez and Court Gonsalez; and his great-grandchildren: Derek, Kason and Sayde.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at St. Barbara’s Catholic Church in Powell, Wyoming. A rosary service will take place at 5 p.m. on Monday, March 17, 2025 with a visitation held one hour prior.
Memorial donations may be made to St. Barbara’s Catholic Church. Please send checks to P.O. Box 524, Worland, Wyoming 82401. Online condolences may be shared at bryantfuneralhomeonline.com.
