Michael Leo Gonzales

Our beloved son, grandson, brother, uncle, cousin, friend
Michael Leo Gonzales passed away unexpectedly on October 1st 2023 in Buttonwillow, CA. He was only 24 years young.
Our family is heartbroken and shocked by this loss.
Michael was born on July 31, 1999 in Bakersfield, Ca to parents Sandy Garza and Mike Gonzales. He was raised in Shafter and graduated in 2018 from Shafter High School.
While growing up Michael was involved in many activities, golden empire football, Shafter recreation sports including baseball, cross country, tennis, soccer, boxing, wrestling, theater, band, and dancing. He was the Apple of his Grandma's eye. When Michael was not working, he was gaming Apex Legends or working on staying fit and active. He was a hard worker who took pride in helping out family and friends.
Michael stepped up at a young age to be a father figure to his younger siblings. His family meant the world to him, and he would give his last dollar to help any one of them. Michael would say "It's just money, I can make more." Quality time with the family was one of his favorite pastimes. Especially when it came to making us laugh with his bullying sense of humor. Yes, he was a prankster. So many funny moments that will never be forgotten. Michael will always be missed. Until we see you again! Fly High Michael Leo!
He was preceded in death by his father Mike Gonzales and
Grandpa Eliazar Garza.
Michael is survived by his Mother Sandy Garza; siblings Eli, Michaela, and Ian Gonzales and Isaiah Bernal; Grandma Grace Garza; Grandpa and Grandma Leobardo, and Elena Gonzales; and many loving Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, friends and his pride and joy, Chief, his German Shepard, who he cared for deeply.
Services are being held for Michael on November 03, 2023, at Basham and Lara Funeral Care on 343 State Ave. Viewing and words of love will be at 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM.