Hector Gonzalez

Hector Valdivia Gonzalez, beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2026, at Sanford Hospital in Bismarck, North Dakota, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 54 years old.

Per Hector's wishes, cremation has taken place and no services will be held.

Born on October 26, 1971, Hector grew up in the Imperial Valley, spending his younger years in El Centro, California, before moving to Westmorland, California, where he created a life filled with hard work, laughter, and unforgettable memories. He attended McCabe Elementary School, Westmorland Elementary School, and later Brawley Union High School.

Hector was the kind of person who could light up a room with his humor and make people laugh no matter what they were going through. He had a heart that welcomed everyone and a personality that people naturally gravitated toward. Whether it was through a joke, a conversation, or simply his presence, Hector had a way of making people feel comfortable and loved.

He was a hardworking man who dedicated 30 years of his life as a chef at the Original Town Pump in Westmorland, where he became more than just a coworker - he became family to many. He also spent numerous years working as a beekeeper alongside Buddy, Brock, and Dion Ashurst, work he truly enjoyed because of his love for the outdoors. Hector loved sightseeing, being outside, and collecting things that carried meaning and memories. He appreciated the simple things in life and found joy in the moments many people overlook.

Above all else, Hector loved his family deeply. He is survived by his son, Hector Gonzalez Jr. of Dickinson, North Dakota; his brother, Johnny Gonzalez of El Centro, California; and his three cherished grandchildren, Landon Gonzalez, Lincoln Gonzalez, and Keilani Gonzalez, all of Dickinson, North Dakota. Being a father and grandfather brought him tremendous pride and happiness, and the love he gave his family will remain with them forever.

Although his passing leaves an unimaginable emptiness in the hearts of those who loved him, Hector's laughter, strength, and love will never fade. The memories he created, the lives he touched, and the love he shared will continue to live on through his family and friends every single day.

He will be deeply missed, endlessly loved, and forever remembered.