Edward Gonzales Jr, 37, of Austin, Minnesota, died Friday, July 20, 2018, of natural causes in his home.

Edward was born July 8, 1981, in Austin, Texas, and raised by adoptive parents Edward Sr. and Diana Gonzales. Edward visited Austin, Minnesota, in 2005 and relocated permanently in February of 2006.

Edward worked at a variety of different jobs over the years, most recently as Sous Chef at Hy-Vee’s Market Grille and as a cook at Steve’s Pizza.

Edward was a storyteller and the life of every party. He was a self-proclaimed “Star Wars” nerd, gamer, “Street Fighter” champion, movie lover and advice giver. He most enjoyed being surrounded by friends and sharing a laugh with a Hamm’s in hand. He could make anyone his friend and if he couldn’t, he would still treat you like one. He lived his life out loud and held nothing back.

Survivors include his father, Edward Gonzales Sr., New Braunfels, Texas; family and friends in Texas; daughter, Olivia Gonzales, South Dakota; sisters and soul mates, Melanie Penkava, Austin, Minnesota, and Kirsten Albino, Austin, Minnesota; fur babies Prudence, Solo, and Leeluu; and countless other friends whose lives he touched and he grew to call his “family.”

A memorial service and celebration of life will be held from 5-8 p.m. on Sunday, July 29,2018, at The Bakery Lounge.