Juan Gamez

JUAN FRANCISCO (“TONY”) GAMEZ age 81, of Holland, passed away on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.

Juan Francisco 'Tony' Gamez lived a life defined by love, faith, and generosity. Born on April 20, 1943, in Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico, he dedicated himself to his family, his faith, and his community. On March 11, 2025, he passed away peacefully, surrounded by those who loved him most.

In 1964, he came to the United States and settled in Holland, Michigan, where he cultivated deep friendships and found joy in giving to others. For 39 years, he worked diligently at BASF Wyandotte, but his greatest passion was always serving those around him. As an active member of Saint Francis de Sales Parish, Juan found fulfillment in reading at Mass, serving communion, and sharing his love through food. His legendary enchiladas became a symbol of his kindness, whether he was cooking for L.A.U.P., Upward Bound, Cursillo retreats, or simply gathering loved ones around his table.

Beyond his love for cooking, Juan had a deep passion for music and radio. As a volunteer at WHTC’s Alegría Latina program, his smooth and heartfelt voice united listeners from all backgrounds. He carefully curated the most romantic melodies, bringing warmth and connection to the airwaves. His love for music was a reflection of his soul—one filled with compassion and joy.

A man of deep faith and unwavering dedication to his family, Juan served in the military in Mexico and proudly registered for service in the U.S. He learned English at Hope College, worked tirelessly to provide for his family, and never stopped learning and growing. Some of his fondest memories were of traveling to Mexico, where he cherished time with loved ones and enjoyed the beauty of Puerto Vallarta and Cancún.

Juan’s gentle spirit, kind heart, and unwavering generosity touched the lives of many. He never hesitated to help anyone in need, always giving selflessly and expecting nothing in return. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a cherished friend. His legacy of love, laughter, and service will live on in the countless hearts he has touched.

He is preceded in death by his parents, José and Juanita Gamez, his brother José Gamez, his eldest son Gerardo (“Jerry”) Gamez (Sylvia), his youngest son Jesus (“Jesse”) Gamez, and his grandson Logan Antonio Gamez.

Juan is survived by his loving wife, Francisca Gamez, of Stanton, Michigan; his son, Jose (“Tony”) Gamez and his wife Roma of Stanton, Michigan; his grandchildren, Jesus Gamez (Jovita) and Tania McDole (Sherman) of Holland, Michigan; Alexandria Sandbulte (Aaron) of Pella, Iowa, and Catarina Gamez-Gilbert of Zeeland, Michigan; eleven great-grandchildren; and his sisters, Maria Elena Gamez, Juanita Gamez, and Leticia Gamez, of Monterrey, Mexico; as well as numerous extended family members and dear friends.

His warmth, kindness, and unwavering spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Standing Stronger Together (“SST”) at standingstrongertogether.org in Juan’s memory. SST is a Michigan non-profit organization dedicated to fostering hope, building resilience, and supporting healing of First Responders, Veterans, and their families from the impacts of traumatic stress in a safe and inclusive environment with clinically informed peer led support.

Juan’s love and light will never fade, and though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing his spirit will always be with us.

The family will receive visitors on Monday, March 17, from 5:00pm to 8:00pm, at the Dykstra Funeral Home - Mulder Chapel, 188 West 32nd Street, Holland.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, March 18, at 2:00pm, at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, 171 West 13th Street, Holland. Visitation will also be held one hour prior to the mass. Father Luis Garcia presiding.

Memorial contributions may be made to Standing Stronger Together, 1309 S. Derby, Stanton, Michigan 48888.

Professional service entrusted to the Downtown Chapel.