Click to view Mr. Gonzalez Bernacet's service
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ausberto Vidal Gonzalez Bernacet, who left us peacefully at the age of 88 on Sunday, July 14, 2024, in Orlando, Florida. Born in Ponce, Puerto Rico, Ausberto's early years were marked by resilience and determination. Losing his mother at a young age, he was raised by his father, Gonzalo, alongside his sister, Emma, and brother, Miguel.
At the age of 17, Ausberto moved to New York to join his sister Emma. By the age of 22, he had joined the U.S. Army, where he served honorably for five years, primarily stationed in Japan. Upon his return he stayed with his brother Miguel and decided to pursue a career as a welder, quickly making many friends through his warm personality and strong work ethic.
Ausberto's love for life was evident in his passion for dancing, which ultimately led him to meet and marry the love of his life, Lucy Ruiz. Together, they welcomed three daughters—Jannette, Lucy (Uchi), and Lourdes—while living in New York. A devoted baseball fan, Ausberto fell in love with the New York Mets during their early days at the Polo Grounds and celebrated their miraculous 1969 season with fervor.
In 1970, Ausberto decided to return to his roots, moving his family back to Ponce, Puerto Rico, where they welcomed their fourth child, Ausberto Vidal Gonzalez Jr (Lito). In Puerto Rico, he continued to build a strong network of friends and was known as a loving husband, an extraordinary father, and a charismatic friend.
Due to economic circumstances in 1996, Ausberto and his family relocated to Orlando, Florida. With the support of his daughter Lucy, son-in-law Julio, and their friend Tito Galarza, he reinvented himself and established a new chapter for the Gonzalez family in Orlando. Over the past 26 years, Ausberto created countless cherished memories and was the cornerstone of his family.
Ausberto's legacy is defined by his unwavering positivity, friendly nature, and exceptional craftsmanship. Known for his impeccable measuring and math skills, he could build anything from solar heating systems to kitchen cabinets. He found joy in dancing to salsa music and playing dominoes, and his love for the Mets remained unwavering throughout his life.
He leaves behind a profound legacy as a dedicated father, a loving husband, a proud grandfather, great grandfather, and a great-great grandfather. Without a doubt the pillar of the Gonzalez family. His warm smile and open heart will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Rest in peace, Ausberto Vidal Gonzalez Bernacet. Your spirit and love will live on in our hearts forever.
The family wishes to honor Ausberto's legacy by requesting that in lieu of flowers, a donation could be made to the American Heart Association, a cause close to his heart. This gesture will ensure his spirit of giving continues to make a difference.
Ausberto's service will be livestreamed at the scheduled service time.