Jose, known as “Joe,” entered his eternal rest on June 24, at home in McKinleyville, surrounded by his family. Joe was born March 13, 1941 in the small village of Fazenda das Lajes, Flores, Azores to Francisco and Maria Gonsalves. His early life was marked by the daily hard work required to survive on a small island. Planting crops, milking cows and raising livestock for survival occupied much time. He was a fierce lover of animals, especially the dogs he owned throughout his life, which most memorably included Madragoa, Tiger, and Lou.

At the age of 21 he entered the mandatory military service, where he received medic training. Once he returned to his village he was able to provide medical assistance to many in his community, since only one doctor served the whole island. His love of medical aid continued throughout his life and he believed he always had a cure for most any ailment. 

On June 6, 1968, he married the love of his life, Diodete Silveira Almeida, in their small village. Soon after they married they began working on the United States immigration process in search of a more prosperous life for their future family. They achieved their goal and arrived in Arcata, Thanksgiving Day 1969 to Diodete’s awaiting family. Six short weeks later they welcomed the arrival of their first child, Elaine. Since they were both no strangers to hard work, the job hunt began and with the help of a family friend Joe was able to secure work in the thriving lumber industry only three weeks later. They were able to purchase their first home on Lewis Avenue and welcome the arrival of their second child, Frank, in 1974. 

His lumber industry career spanned 25 years, working for Georgia Pacific, Louisiana Pacific and Beaver Lumber. When the lumber industry declined and Louisiana Pacific closed in 1995, Joe quickly pivoted and began custodial work at St. Mary’s Elementary School, a place he already had deep connections to, since both of his children had attended elementary school there and he was a parish member. His 11 years at St. Mary’s were some that he treasured most. He loved being surrounded by so many children and caring staff. If you were a part of the St. Mary’s School community during this time, you made a lasting impact on his life. 

If you ever had the opportunity to talk to Joe, you most definitely experienced his amazing sense of humor, something everyone loved about him. Joe was an avid gardener, he could grow anything. He regularly grew potatoes, onions, garlic, peas, kale and fruit trees. While he still could, he tended beautifully to his rose garden. After retirement you often found him pruning elderly friends’ bushes and trees. 

In the early years he and Diodete worked opposite shifts to provide care for their children. He was a very involved and supportive father, when work allowed he was at every awards ceremony, field trip, and fundraiser. He showed up and his actions demonstrated his love for his family. His love shined even brighter when his grandchildren began arriving. He always had time for them, the countless walks they took with the dog and even building bunny cages for their pets. There was nothing the grandkids couldn’t talk him into, especially if it involved stopping for a candy bar. They loved him fiercely and will treasure all the memories they made with their Avô.

He and Diodete cared for her parents in their home until their passing, and later also cared for his Godmother. He felt a profound calling to care for others in their time of need. Joe was a deeply devout Catholic, attending mass every Sunday and after retirement he could be found at daily mass while his health permitted. He made many great friends in his church community. 

The last years of his life were marked by declining health which limited his mobility, and really changed his day to day. This was a challenging change for him. He was so thankful for all the family and friends that took time to stop by and visit or make regular phone calls to check on him. 

Joe is preceded in death by his parents Francisco and Maria Gonsalves, his in-laws Jose and Amelia Almeida, his Godmother Maria de Jesus Gonsalves, Jr. and numerous brothers and sisters-in-laws.

Joe is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, who has dedicated the last several years providing him excellent care. He is survived by his daughter Elaine Pimentel and husband Jorge; his son Frank Gonsalves and wife Bobbie; his grandchildren Tasha Pimentel (Luca), Crystal Pimentel Gonzalez (Adrian), Danner Gonsalves (Hannah), McKenzie Gonsalves (Spencer) and his great-granddaughter Audri Gonzalez. He also leaves behind a brother in-law, several sisters-in-law and numerous nieces and nephews he adored.

The family would like to give special thanks to Jennifer and Rose who assisted our mom with the care of our dad for the last eight months. We would also like to thank Hospice of Humboldt for their support and compassion in his last few weeks.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, July 6, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Arcata.

• Rosary: 11 a.m.
• Funeral Mass: Immediately following the Rosary
• Interment: St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery

All are invited to join the family for a Celebration of Life reception following the services at the Church’s Leavey Hall.

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