Memorial updated 02/15/2022 - Dianna Pennington Hendren

Abel Gomez, 89, of Sugar City, passed away on March 16, 2012 at his home. He valiantly battled cancer for 4 months. He was born on April 25, 1922 in Los Angeles, CA to Raymond & Josephine (Carnero) Gomez.

He did contracts for Amend with his dad and being the oldest of 6 children he was always in love with boxing. At 18 he joined the 87th Infantry Golden Eagle Acorn Division in World War II, after his training he went to England and shipped to Omaha Beach and the Battle of the Bulge. Abe led the way to the Siegfried Line in to France and ended in Germany for the last push before Germany surrendered. He froze his feet and became a disabled veteran, earning the Bronze Star, Silver Star and 2 Purple Hearts along with many more.

As Abel returned home he worked with his dad doing cement work. He went on to college and was hired by Kalman Floor Company retiring after 45 years as a National Production Manager. The company sent him all over the US, Mexico, England & Venezuela. He retired in 1989 and married his wife Dorothy Dillon-Passig Gomez; they lived in a very loving relationship.

Abel is survived by his wife, Dorothy of the home; daughter, Melody Gomez; step-children, Dan (Carol) Passig, Paula Pacino, Sandy (Daryl) Geringer, Michael (Barbara) Passig; brothers, Alex (Mary) Gomez, Raymond (Reyna) Gomez, sister-in-laws, Mona (Vern) Gomez & Marie Gomez, 19 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren, he was always Grandpa to all of them.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Rickie Gomez; a daughter, Marlene Gomez; step-son, Tom Passig; brother, Vern Gomez and 2 sisters.

Abel lived his life passionately for family and friends. He dedicated his retirement to the Rocky Ford ELKS Lodge #1147, becoming Exalted Ruler and Chairman of the Trustees. He was also active in the VFW and became District Manager.

A memorial service will be on Friday, March 23, 2012 at 2:00 PM in the Rocky Ford ELKS Lodge #1147 at 301 N. 9th. There will be no viewing as cremation has been effected. Inurnment will be in the Valley View Cemetery in Ordway. Memorial Funds have been established with the Rocky Ford ELKS Lodge #1147, 301 N. 9th, Rocky Ford, CO 81067 or the Arkansas Valley Hospice, 118 W. 4th, La Junta, CO 81050.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Ford-Ustick Funeral Home. Condolences may be sent to www.fordustick.com.