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In Loving Memory of Jose – Help Us Lay Him to Rest

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Dear Family, Friends, and Kind Supporters,

It is with unimaginable sorrow that we share the passing of our beloved Jose on May 8th, 2025, after a long, painful, and incredibly brave fight against cancer. He was only 26 years old—so full of life, hope, and dreams that now will never have the chance to be fulfilled. There are no words that can truly express the heartbreak of losing someone so young, so gentle, and so deeply cherished.

Jose’s fight began in 2021 with a rare and aggressive cancer. After enduring years of grueling treatment, surgeries, and countless hospital visits, he overcame it—only to be diagnosed with leukemia just one year later. Still, he fought with every ounce of strength he had. He endured clinical trials, infections, pneumonia, and the devastating spread of leukemia to his spinal fluid. Every time life knocked him down, he got back up.

Even when his body was breaking, his spirit never did. Jose remained kind, grateful, and full of love. He faced each day with courage that humbled all of us. He fought not just for himself, but for all of us who loved him—and we will never stop being proud of him.

Now, we find ourselves in the depths of grief, trying to plan a funeral for the child we should never have had to say goodbye to. We want to lay Jose to rest with the love, peace, and dignity he so greatly deserves. But after years of medical hardships, travel, and time away from work, the emotional and financial strain has left us struggling to cover these final costs.

If you are able to help—even with a small contribution—it would mean the world to our family. Every donation will go directly toward Jose’s funeral and burial expenses. If you cannot donate, we kindly ask that you share this page and help us honor his memory.

Once funeral arrangements are made, we will post an update here to keep everyone informed.

Thank you for standing with us. Thank you for loving my son, our brother, our light. We miss him more than words could ever say—and we always will.

With broken hearts,
The Cortez/Gonzalez Family


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    Organizer and beneficiary

    Veronica Cortez
    Organizer
    Santa Maria, CA
    Jose Gonzalez
    Beneficiary

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