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Joseph R. Gonzalez, age 79 of South Amboy passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 16, 2019 at The Venetian Care Center in South Amboy. Born in Manhattan, NY he had resided for many years in West Orange and Springfield Township before moving to Old Bridge. Since he was a young man Joseph loved animals and dedicated his life to caring for them. He loved horseback riding and could never say no to an animal in distress. He took many into his own home through the years and cared for them in their later years. He cared for friends and family’s pets as well as his own. He became a devoted Veterinary Technician formerly working for the Animal Medical Center in NYC, for Dr. Silverman in West Orange and before he retired for the Animal Emergency and Referral Associates in Fairfield.

He is predeceased by his parents Joseph and Mary Gonzalez, his baby brother Joseph M. Gonzalez, and his sister Josephine Sanchez. Surviving are his sisters Dolores Marinello of Columbus, NJ, Carmen Teresa Holmstrom of NY and Gloria Gonzalez of NY, many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, grand and great grand nieces and nephews and cousins. He loved his family. He was a beloved uncle who lit up the room whenever he entered it. His charisma, humor and stories would lift everyone’s spirits. He was a fabulous entertainer with his velvet baritone voice in the likes of Elvis, Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra. He performed at many weddings, Bar Mitzfahs and night clubs as “Joe Michaels”. He always had a smile on his face. His family and friends loved him so much and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

A memorial service will be held at the Carmen F. Spezzi Funeral Home, 15 Cherry Lane, Parlin on Wednesday, November 13th from 4pm to 8pm with a Prayer Service at 7pm. An interment will take place at a later date at Calvary Cemetery in Queens, NY.