Arthur Gonzales

🕊️ In Loving Memory of Arthur "Bubba" Gonzales February 26, 1947 – September 8, 2025

Arturo Gonzales, known by many names, (Arthur, Art, Big Art, Bubba, Dad, Tio and Papa), passed away peacefully on September 8, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on February 26, 1947, in Taos, New Mexico, he was the eldest of five siblings: Patricia, Louie, Charlie, and Rita. He was the beloved son of Julia Medina Gonzales and Patricio Gonzales.

A proud Vietnam veteran, Arturo served his country with honor from 1967 to 1969. After his service, he moved to California, where fate led him to Olivia “Libby” Romero. The two married on June 9, 1976, and later returned to Arturo’s hometown of Taos to build a life rooted in love, tradition, and hard work.

Together, they raised two daughters, Michelle Gonzales and Janis Gonzalez (Joe Gonzalez), in the home once belonging to Arturo’s grandparents, Cerlio and Adelida Medina. There, Arturo poured his heart into building a vibrant farm “his pride and joy”, where he raised pigs, chickens, turkeys, ducks, rabbits, sheep, cattle, and horses. His connection to the land and animals was deep and unwavering.

Arturo Gonzales dedicated 25 years of service to the Town of Taos as a Public Works Operator III, where he became a beloved and familiar presence, especially behind the wheel of the town sweeper. His commitment to the community was evident not only in his work but also in his joyful participation in the annual Sunday Fiesta Parade, where residents would cheer him on as he proudly closed out the procession. Arturo retired on December 31, 2003, and in recognition of his years of service and the deep affection the town held for him, January 20, 2004, was officially declared “Arthur Gonzales Day” in the Town of Taos.

Arturo found peace in the outdoors. Hunting trips, especially those on horseback, were his cherished escapes. Summers were spent cutting and baling hay, often with his grandchildren, Jazlyn Gonzalez Montoya (Eric Montoya) and Jared Gonzales, by his side. He taught them the rhythms of farm life, passing down not just skills, but stories, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

In the final chapter of his life, Arturo was blessed to witness the early years of his great-granddaughter, Adelyda Montoya, daughter of Jazlyn & Eric. For the past two years, he watched her grow with joy and pride, often marveling at her spirit and the way she lit up the room. Seeing her raised in the same loving environment he helped create was a gift he cherished deeply, a reminder that his legacy would continue to bloom through generations.

Arturo’s life was a tapestry of service, love, hard work, and devotion to family. He will be remembered for his strength, his warmth, and the many names that reflected the many roles he played in the lives of those who loved him.

Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, September 26, 2025 at 10:00am at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, a meal in Art's honor will follow at St. Joseph's Hall. Burial will take place on Monday, September 29, 2025 at 12:30pm at the Angel Fire Veterans Cemetery. 

The family of Arturo Gonzales has entrusted the care of their loved one to the caring staff of DeVargas Funeral Home of Taos. 866-657-4019 www.devargastaos.com