Jay Michael Gonzales, 72, of Salt Lake City, Utah, passed away on April 30, 2026, surrounded by his loving family following a years-long fight with Parkinson’s disease. Born on July 17, 1953, Jay was raised in Wyoming before returning to Utah, where he spent much of his life building a legacy of hard work, community, and deep devotion to his family.
Jay earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Utah and built a wide-ranging career reflecting his determination and adaptability, including a long tenure in Industrial Sales with Intermountain Valve and Controls and Bray Inc. He had a natural gift for connecting with people — customers genuinely looked forward to his visits, often brightened by a box of donuts and his easy warmth.
A gifted athlete and competitor at heart, Jay loved golf, baseball, and football above all, and never missed a Utah game. He volunteered at J.E. Cosgriff Memorial Catholic School, where he coached both his sons in basketball and baseball through the CYA program. He went on to referee basketball at the high school level and umpire baseball through the collegiate level — and those who knew him knew he took that responsibility seriously. Fairness and integrity were his standard on every court and every diamond, without exception. Music also held a special place in his heart, bringing joy to everyone around him.
Jay’s faith was equally central to who he was. A devoted member of St. Ambrose Parish and a Fourth Degree Knight of the Knights of Columbus, he carried his values of faith, service, and integrity into every corner of his life.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, Lorie (Mursener) Gonzales; his sons Gary Mursener-Gonzales (Angela) and David Mursener-Gonzales (Patty Bloom); and his cherished grandchildren Oliver Mursener-Gonzales, Lukas Mursener-Gonzales, and Gabrielle Gonzales. He is also survived by his sisters Kay Olmstead and Jackie Patrick (Shaun), and his sister-in-law Trinidad Gonzales. He was preceded in death by his mother, Virginia Salazar Gonzales, and his brother, Robert Gonzales.
Jay’s warmth, humor, and quiet strength left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. A proud husband, father, abuelo, tío, coach, and friend — he will be remembered for his love of the game, his loyalty to his family, and his generous spirit.
A viewing will be on Thursday, May 7, 2026 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Guests are encouraged to use the parking on the north side of the building. Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, May 8, 2026 at 11:00 am at St. Ambrose Catholic Church, 2315 East Redondo Avenue, Salt Lake City. Jay will be laid to rest following Mass at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 1352 East 500 South, Salt Lake City.
