Vincent Gonzales

Vincent Gonzales, 71, died unexpectedly on July 28, 2026, following complications related to diabetes. Although his family knew his health had become a concern, his passing came much too soon and has been deeply felt by all who knew and loved him.

Vince was born on August 24, 1954, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Epifanio and Lucy Gonzales. As the fourth of seven children, he grew up surrounded by family. Grounded by the values his parents instilled in him, he developed a strong work ethic, a deep appreciation for family and faith, and gratitude for life and beauty around him. Vince learned to take pride in his culture; to cherish the way family comes together over a shared meal, and to embrace and make the most of the gifts and talents he had been given.

Vince attended Bishop Glass Elementary School and later graduated from Judge Memorial Catholic High School. He then earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Graphic Design from the University of Utah. Vince was a very intelligent individual. His inquiring mind and penchant for problem solving helped him seamlessly enter the digital age when others were left behind. Vince was well respected in the design and advertising industry as an outstanding graphic designer and art director.

Vince was creative in every way imaginable. He continually surprised those around him with his gifted artwork, beautiful photography, and even the occasional pear pie that was so amazingly delicious, one would find  themselves craving another within days.

Though most often quiet, Vince had a wonderful sense of humor and was always ready to share a good laugh. His sly comments, unexpected jokes, and playful tricks often caught people by surprise. He was always up for a good movie, especially cheesy science fiction or animated films from around the world. As a creative person, Vince appreciated the imagination and artistry of others.

Vince found peace and happiness in the beauty of nature. He loved hiking, fishing, cross-country skiing, and rock climbing. It was no surprise when Vince became a Boy Scout leader and was able to share his passion for the outdoors. Scouting was something of a family tradition shared with his father and older siblings. He taught the Scouts valuable outdoor survival skills, camp cooking, and how to tie knots, teamwork, etc. as well as an appreciation and respect for the wilderness.

Vince was a fun brother and uncle, as well as a loving, attentive, and devoted father. Over the course of his life, Vince married twice and became the proud father of three wonderful children. Although each of those marriages would eventually end, Vince remained deeply grateful for the family they created and considered Kevin, Aiden, and Tara to be his greatest blessings. He loved watching them grow, protecting them from the world whenever he could, and eventually stood back with pride as they began to choose and follow their own paths in life.

To those who knew him, Vince remained a kind and humble man. He will be remembered as a gentle giant with a creative spirit, quiet strength, a playful sense of humor, and a deep love for his family.

Vince was preceded in death by his loving parents, Epifanio and Lucy Gonzales; his sister, Cecilia Lyons; and his nephew, Scott Gonzales. He is survived by his children, Kevin Vincent Gonzales, Aiden James Gonzales, and Tara Gonzales (Duncan) Trumpler; his siblings, Randall (Tammy) Gonzales, Shirley (Roger) Mares, Alexander (Kerry) Gonzales, Laura (Dan) Adams, and Brian (Kristene) Gonzales; as well as many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, cousins, Aunt Monica Zaragoza, and loving friends who will miss him dearly.

Viewing will be Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City, UT from 6:00 – 8:00 PM. Parking on the North side.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 9757 South 1700 East, Sandy, UT, at 11:00 AM. Burial at Mount Calvary Catholic Cemetery, 275 U Street, Salt Lake City, UT.