José “Joe” Gomes passed away on December 26, 2022 after 82 wonderful years.

He was born July 16, 1940 in Flores, Açores and raised by his parents José Coelho Gomes and Maria Rosario Gomes. When he was 20 years old he immigrated to the United States to Yuba City. In 1963 he moved to Arcata, working in the lumber industry. He worked as a forklift driver for 16 years for Louisiana Pacific.

In 1964 he met and married Alvarina Gonsalves, who he created a family with. After his retirement he dedicated his life to his grandkids by watching every sport they played, taking care of them after school and making sure they were all well fed. He enjoyed fishing, cruises with his wife and friends, traveling to see all the grandkids and being heavily involved in the Portuguese community. 

Joe is survived by his wife Alvarina Gomes, their four children Ed Gomes (Amber Gomes), Liz Boettner (Rich Boettner), Judy Smith (Sean Smith), and Rick Gomes, his grandchildren Ryan Gomes, Riley Gomes, Connor Smith, Bryce Gomes, Claire Smith, Audrey Gomes, and Alex Boettner. Joe is preceded in death by his parents, his brothers, Celestino Gomes and Ted Gomes, his sister, Maria Roy, and his nephew, David Gomes. Along with numerous friends that were a big part of his life.

Thank you to St. Joseph Hospital staff and Dr. Fellows for all of your help in Joe’s life. Rosary will be held Thursday, December 29, 2022 at 6 p.m. at Paul’s Chapel. Funeral will be held at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in Arcata at 10 a.m. on December 30, 2022.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Joe Gomes’ loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.