José Gonzalez of El Jordan Cafe with his wife, Lorena, center.
El Jordan Cafe owner José Gonzalez, whose broad smile and consistent service endeared him to customers, died of cancer last week.
Gonzalez opened the cafe with his wife, Lorena, in 1996. He had cancer for about two and a half years.
Friends and neighbors recently raised more than $33,000 to help with medical costs.
Neighbor Jessica Woodruff organized the fundraiser and announced Gonzalez’s death on social media:
He was a strong and determined man. He was a kind man. He was jovial, funny and tender. He was a devout lover and follower of Jesus Christ. He was a good man. He was selfless. He will be sorely missed and fondly remembered always and by so many.
Being as he was and who he was.. I think he would want me to tell you that his hope was in the Lord Jesus, and he would want all of you to know that you are loved by this great, big God for who you are. José is happy now and free from the pain of human suffering. His faith has been fulfilled.
El Jordan Cafe is “closed until further notice,” according to an announcement on Facebook.
Visitation is from noon-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 20 at Junius Heights Baptist Church with a service to follow from 6:30-10 p.m.
