Richard Manuel Gonzalez

RICHARD M ANUEL GONZALEZ , 88 , of Red Bud , Illinois, passed away at 12:20 pm, Wednesday, January 1 8, 2023 at Bria of Columbia, Columbia, Illinois.

He was born to the late Manuel and Genevieve (nee Stephens) Gonzalez on August 19, 1934 in Sabinas Hildalgo, Nuevo Leon, Mexico. His mother brought Richard and his sister to the United States in 1939 and he grew up in West Frankfort, Illinois.

Richard married Melba J. Moll on August 22, 1959 at St. Xavier Catholic Church in Carbondale, Illinois ; she survives.

R ichard graduated from the Illinois Police Academy in 1959. After over 34 years on the road he retired as a Senior Master Trooper. He had received numerous awards including a life saving award.

He was an Army Veteran and served in the Korean War.

Richard was a member of the Fraternal Order of Police and American Legion Post #622 in Prairie du Rocher, Illinois.

Survivors:

Wife:

Melba Gonzalez Red Bud, IL

2 Children:

Stephen E. (Lynne) Gonzalez Prairie du Rocher, IL

Marisa B. (Joseph) Bearden St. Louis, MO

6 Grandchildren:

Andrew J. (Ashley) Bearden, Zachary J. Bearden, Jacob D. Bearden, Celiene M. Gonzalez, Vincent T. Gonzalez and Nathaniel G. Gonzalez

Several Sisters-in-law, Brothers-in-law, Nieces, Nephews, Great Nieces, Great Nephews and Friends

Preceded in death by: Parents – Manuel Gonzalez and Genevieve Gonzalez Williams , Step-Father – Ralph J. Williams, 1 Daughter – Stefani June Gonzalez, 1 Grandson – Eric J. Bearden and 1 Sister and Brother-in-law

It was Richard’s wishes to be cremated and an Inurnment Service will be held at a later date at St. Leo’s Catholic Cemetery, Modoc, Illinois.