Rafael Gonzales Jr. passed away on Monday, February 9, surrounded by the love that defined his life, his wife Rozette, his daughter Presley, and his family who never left his side.

Rafael was, first and always, a family man. His love for Rozette was powerful and enduring, rooted in laughter and friendship, and deep devotion. Presley was his greatest pride and the light of his life. Everything he worked for, fought for, and dreamed about carried her name in his heart. He wanted her future to be bright and secure, and he never stopped trying to build that for her.

For nearly two decades, Rafael served as Lab Manager and Compliance Officer at the Feik School of Pharmacy. He approached his work with integrity, care, and an unmatched attention to detail. Highly educated and deeply driven, Rafael attended Ivy League institutions and earned multiple degrees, accomplishments he carried with quiet pride. Yet titles and credentials were never what defined him. He was the steady hand behind the scenes, the one who made sure things were done right, and the one people trusted.

Outside of work, many knew him as "Pinche Raf," an artist whose work reflected his culture, his community, and his heart. Through murals, Lotería-inspired prints, and community projects, Rafael celebrated Chicano identity, family, resilience, and belonging. He believed art could hold people together, tell hard truths, and remind us who we are.

Rafael faced his illness with honesty and courage. He spoke openly about fear and uncertainty, but he also spoke constantly about gratitude: for family, for friends, and for the community that showed up for him in countless ways. He often said that family is everything, and he lived that truth every day.

He is survived and deeply loved by his mother, Rosemary (Juan); his sisters, Rosalie (Mario) and Roxanne (Raymond); and his brother, Roger. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Diana, and father-in-law, Raymond; his brothers-in-law, Richard, Reno (Samantha), and Mathew; his sisters-in-law, Raven (Anthony) and Alexandra (Matthew); his beautiful nephews, Seth, Ethan, Ryan, Ian, Kaleb, Luke, and Rhy; his cherished nieces, Savanah and Arya; along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and cherished friends.

He is preceded in death by his father, Rafael Gonzales Sr.

Visitation services will be held at Castillo Funeral Home, 520 N. General McMullen, San Antonio, Texas 78207, on February 17 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Rafael leaves behind a legacy of unconditional love, service, creativity, and unwavering commitment to the people he cared about. His presence filled rooms. His work filled walls. His love filled lives. He will be loved more forever and ever.