Sam Gonzalez, 40, passed away on Tuesday, September 22, 2009. He resided on Flathead Indian Reservation in Pablo, Montana, for many years with his long-time partner Joyce Peone.

Sam was born January 6, 1969 to Hill and Virginia (Martinez) Gonzalez in Hayward. He attended East Union High School before moving to Arizona. There he met Joyce and in 1996 they moved to Montana. He worked for Big Sky Heating & Air Conditioning until recent health issues kept him home. He enjoyed playing cards and cribbage with friends, his dog Chomps, and watching TV. When possible he still enjoyed fishing.

Sam is survived by his son, Raymon Jewell and Ray’s mother Toni. He is also survived by his father, Hill Gonzalez, his partner Dora Grogan; sister, Gloria Castillo, her husband Arthur; brother, Alvin Gonzalez, his wife Delfina, sister Corinna Matsell, her husband Don, and sister, Jo Ann Neilsen, and her husband Bill. His extended family includes ten nieces, nephews, and ten great-nieces, nephews and many relatives in California and Texas.

He was preceded in death by his mother and his grandparents. A wake was held on Sept. 24, 2009 in St. Ignatius, Montana. At his request, he will be laid to rest beside his mother in a private service at the San Joaquin Catholic Cemetery in Stockton.