Michael "Mike" Anast Gonzales, 69, of Hope Mills, NC, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Monday, October 6, 2025. A proud veteran, devoted father and grandfather, Mike touched every life he encountered in an unforgettable way, with faith, humor, and compassion.

Born in Hope Mills to Sarah E. Gonzales (Tyson) and the late MSG (Ret.) Enrique "Hank" Gonzales, Mike's early years were spent traveling the world with his military family; experiences that shaped his lifelong respect for service, appreciation for people, and strength of character. The family later settled in Fayetteville, where Mike graduated from Douglas Byrd High School in 1975.

Mike joined the U.S. Navy for several years after high school, beginning a lifetime of service to his country. After his Navy service, he transitioned to the U.S. Army, where he served as a tank commander, a role he always said was the best job he ever had, and ultimately rose to the rank of Command Sergeant Major. He also served within the Joint Special Operations Command and served with distinction in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was recognized with numerous decorations, including the Bronze Star Medal and the Meritorious Service Medal.

He loved being called "Dad" and "Poppy." His children and grandchildren were the center of his world, and he never missed a chance to share how proud he was of them. He poured himself into guiding, supporting, and encouraging them at every stage of life. He was their biggest protector; their Superman. He enjoyed the good times in life and took pride in his many hobbies, especially his talent for art and woodworking. Whether cheering at a Campbell baseball game, playing Pickleball, or spending time with family, including their beloved dog, Abby, Mike filled every moment with joy and laughter.

Mike is survived by his mother, Sarah Tyson Gonzales; his daughters, Tori and Emily Gonzales; his son, Michael (Eva) Gonzales; his grandchildren, Frankie, Macie, Clara, Brenlee, and Layton; and his siblings, Angela (Tony) Cruz, Deborah Gonzales, Karen (Bill) Igel, and Joseph Gonzales. He was preceded in death by his father, Enrique "Hank" Gonzales.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home in Fayetteville, NC. Funeral services will follow on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home, with burial and full military honors at Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery at 12:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Mike's honor, reflecting his lifelong compassion and care for others.

Arrangements are entrusted to Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home, 545 Ramsey St., Fayetteville, N.C. 28301.

Online condolences may be made at www.jerniganwarren.com.

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105
Tel: 1-800-805-5856
Web: http://www.stjude.org/