Ulpiano Gonzalez

Ulpiano Gonzalez, age 90, of Grand Rapids, born in Jayuya, Puerto Rico, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, December 28, 2024. The patriarch of the Gonzalez family, Ulpiano (lovingly known as “Papi”) was a devoted Husband, Father, Grandfather and Great-Grandfather. Ulpiano admired his wife. In his eyes she was his everything- his companion, confidante, best friend, and greatest love. Even in his final days her presence brought him comfort and peace, a testament to their enduring bond. Ulpiano was the rock his children depended on. He instilled in them the same values he was raised with-integrity, respect, and the importance of sticking together through thick and thin. His love for his children was unparalleled, and he was immensely proud of the lives they built. To his grandchildren, he was a father figure, and his love served as a constant source of inspiration and strength for all generations to follow. He worked hard throughout his life, but it was his family that he devoted himself to. His greatest joy was to see his family gather, sharing stories, meals, and laughter. There was no greater reward for him than knowing that his children and grandchildren were thriving. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joaquin and Julia Gonzalez; 12 brothers and 2 sisters; his beloved nephew, Jordan “Coco” Gonzalez; and 2 great-grandchildren, Ny’Anna Johnson and Jordan Sleet. 

He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 60 years, Carmen Gonzalez; 4 children, Manuel (Andrea) Matos, Carmen (Freddie) Rosado, Julia Robinson, and Areli (Arnold) Johnson; 11 grandchildren, Christina (Quinton) Sleet, Maria Mejias, Cassondra (Carlton) Brewster, Jose (Marcela) Mejias, Jacqueline Pearson, Nathan Johnson, Luis Mejias, Analicia Johnson, Juan Rosado, Terrance Shackelford, and Juan Matos; 34 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews near and dear to his heart. 

Funeral services will be held at 11am Tuesday, January 7 at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, 4031 Clyde Park Ave SW, Wyoming, MI, 49509, with Pastor Jerry Bishop officiating. Burial will be held at Resurrection Cemetery, 4100 Clyde Park Ave SW, Wyoming, MI, 49509 immediately following the service. Relatives and friends may meet the family at the funeral home Monday, January 6  from 2-5pm for visitation.