September 29, 1940 ~ December 16, 2004
Resided in:
Hermosa Beach, CA
Gonzales, Michael, Alfred, a 60 year resident of the South Bay, passed away on Thursday, December 16, 2004, in Torrance, CA. Born in Las Cruces, NM, Michael was 64 when he died. He is survived by his wife Lynne, sons Adam and Derek, daughter Jena, 4 grandchildren, mother Natalie Provencio, Brother Ernie Gonzales, sisters Sylvia, Arlene & Sandy and brothers Val and Gene Provencio. Memorial Mass will be held at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Hermosa Beach Wednesday, December 22, 2004, 10:00 AM with reception to follow.
Guestbook
Sensei Mike was a great man, teacher, friend and role model. Like a father, he imparted wisdom, warmth and laughs. I enjoyed hearing stories about his grandchildren who are the same ages as my own boys. I will miss him. I feel fortunate to have been able to have spent time with him and to have known him as his student. My deepest condolences to his family.
Mike was always the smile that lit up wherever he was and whomever he was talking to at the Sports Center. You will be missed and I will miss your smile. I wish his family peace. Keep the faith.
I am so sorry to hear about Mike – this is really a tragedy. Mike was a fine Sensei, who I enjoyed learning from and who expanded my horizons. He was always encouraging and very thoughtful in his teaching and advice. I recall that I trained in several sparring emphasis classes at the old South Bay dojo that Mike taught when I was a brown belt. I was preparing to participate in the Riverside tournament (the only time I ever took part in a tournament). I felt well prepared when I got on the floor, and did just fine, so I\’ve always felt a special gratitude towards Mike. Also, one time when Sensei George Takahashi asked what the most important thing was, Mike\’s answer (after a number of other stabs by others) was (if I may paraphrase him) to “just be happy”. This has really stuck with me throughout the years when I reflect upon this life of ours. Sensei Mike\’s voice will remain vibrant in my karate and life. Stan
Dear Gonzales Family, It is with deep regret that I heard of Mike\’s passing. I extend my deepest condolences to you in your time of grief. I have been a karate student at WLA and had the good fortune to study with Mike many times. He was a wonderful and caring teacher as well as a very talented Karateka. Please take pride and comfort in the good work and good feelings he gave to others. May he rest in peace. Kindest regards,\’ Suzanne Ponder
I have fond memories of Mike and his family, from the old days in Manhattan Beach and MiCoHi. My sincere condolences to all his family.
I just heard of Mike\’s passing this morning December 27th. I remember Mike from my grade school days at American Martyrs. I was a friend of his brother Ernie. I remember spending time at their home on Highland Avenue and Mike would always tease us and give us a friendly hard time. I remember him as being a nice guy to be around. I saw Mike many times through my high school years (Serra High) and in to my late 20\’s. He would always remember me and greet me with that great smile. My sincere condolences go out to his family.