Gonzalo A. Mendizabal

On January 13, 2022, Gonzalo A. Mendizabal, age 92 years, of Somerdale, NJ, passed away.  Gonzalo is survived by his sister, Judith (Rodney); niece, Peggy (Frank); niece, Monica (Rodney); nephew, Daniel; niece, Gina; and two grandnieces, Alexis and Ava.

Gonzalo was the son of Aida Belzu and Antonio Mendizabal.  He was born on February 23, 1929 in Oruro Bolivia, South America.  Gonzalo attended the German School in Oruro and later moved to La Paz and attended La Salle High School.  After graduation he attended the Military Academy and the University of La Paz.  There he studied law and later worked at the Mendizabal Law Firm.  Gonzalo was a sportsman.  He was an excellent swimmer and played basketball.  He was also a professional dancer of Diablada, a group of dancers that dance yearly through the streets for the Carnival.  It is very big event attended by international visitors.  Gonzalo was very active in Bolivia.  He was a friendly and happy person who loved life and people.  Sometime in the 70’s, he immigrated to the USA due to the unstable political situation in Bolivia.

Gonzalo met Dorothy and married her.  They were married for many years. During his time in the United States Gonzalo worked in many occupations.  He was unable to work in his field due to his lack of fluency in the English language.  Gonzalo was always very happy and liked all people.  He never spoke negatively about others.

The visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 19, 2022 from 10-11:00 AM at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish St. Luke Church, 55 Warwick Road, Stratford, NJ 08084.  Mass will immediately follow at 11:00 AM.  Funeral arrangements under the direction of DuBois Funeral Home, 700 South White Horse Pike, Audubon, NJ 08106.  Condolences and memories may be shared at DuboisFuneralHome.