Robert Michael Gonzales

Robert (Rob) Michael Gonzales, age 51, of Denver, Colorado, passed away on September 10, 2025.

Rob was born in Denver to Robert Daniel Gonzales and Marcella Gonzales. He is preceded in death by his mother. He is survived by his partner in life, Olivia; his son, Dominic; his stepdaughter, Miranda (Erik); and his grandchildren, Gavin and Xiomara. He is also survived by his father, Robert; his sister, Kimberly (Will); and his brother, James.

Growing up, Rob spent most of his time either with his grandma, his dad, or with his close friends. However, he shared an unbreakable bond with his sister Kim and his brother James. His love for them was deep, unwavering, and beyond words. Protecting them became his life's mission, and he made it his priority to ensure they always felt safe. Rob had a unique gift for turning everyday moments into unforgettable memories. Whether it was a birthday, holiday, or just a simple shopping trip and lunch, he found joy in celebrating life’s milestones. He created new adventures for Kim and James, sparking her love for travel, his passion for fishing, and instilling in them a strong belief that hard work truly pays off.Without even realizing it, Rob was an inspiration.

After graduating high school early, he went on to study phlebotomy and earned a degree from Pima College. Ultimately, though, he found his lifelong passion in woodwork and lumber, inspired by his Uncle Dick. Rob spent most of his professional life in the lumber industry, rising quickly into management roles at two of the three lumber companies he worked at. His work was not just a job — it was a craft he took pride in, often using his skills outside of work as well. He finished his professional life excited to work at Czarnowski of Denver as a Company Buyer, something he loved and took just as much pride in.

In 2002, Rob met his partner Olivia and was quickly embraced by the Martinez family. He cherished time spent with his father-in-law Aurelio, mother-in-law Marie, brother-in-law Lelo, and (step)daughter Miranda. In 2004, he and Olivia welcomed their son, Dominic, who immediately became the center of Rob’s world. From the moment Dominic was born, Rob made it his life’s mission to protect and provide for his son. His greatest goal was to give Dominic the life he had always dreamed of—surrounding him with books, toys, video games, electronics, birthday parties, a safe home, a good education, and all the experiences he had longed to share as a father. Rob lived for the family he created, and the pride and love he felt for Dominic was beyond measure.

When his niece Destiny was born, Rob fell in love instantly. He made sure she always knew how deeply she was loved and loved playing around with her and making her laugh. With his nephew Julian, Rob shared a special bond—one built on deep understanding, meaningful conversations about life, and their shared love for scary movies. Rob saw Julian in a way only he could, offering him a safe space to be himself. Rob also quickly grew a deep affection for his grandson, Gavin. From the moment Gavin was born, Rob wholeheartedly embraced his role as Grandpa, cherishing every opportunity to spend time with him. He loved being silly, playing together when Gavin was little, and later proudly cheering him on from the sidelines of his basketball games. Rob especially enjoyed having Gavin over on the weekends to hang out, often referring to him affectionately as 'my buddy' or his 'cool little dude'.

Rob was always up for an adventure or challenge. He lived fast and fearlessly — sometimes too fast and fearless. He loved to travel, having visited nearly every inland U.S. state, along with trips to Mexico and Puerto Rico. He was a huge movie fan, perfectly happy to spend an entire day on the couch with his family, munching on popsicles and watching anything from action and horror to comedies — even the occasional Disney film.

Rob enjoyed going to different events especially enjoying metal and old-school concerts, sporting events, and never missed a graduation from his siblings, son, or daughter. He was an accomplished pool player with his name etched on many trophies and plaques throughout bars in Colorado. He had a way of knowing the answer to almost everything — the result of street smarts, intelligence, and life experience. Quick-witted, stubborn, and brilliant, Rob left an impression everywhere he went.

Rob was many things to different people. He was a son, a partner, a brother, a dad, a grandpa, a biker, a businessman, and a good friend. But those who knew him deeply wouldn't hesitate to describe him as loyal, protective, dedicated, and full of life. He had a fierce love for those close to him and was loved just as fiercely in return.

It's not easy to put into words the amount of life Rob lived in his 51 years and at times it seems like he lived multiple lives in those years.

His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, in the memories he created, and in the love he gave so freely. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished.