GONZALEZ, James "Jaime" age 84, died on Sunday, Nov. 23, 2014. Mr. G, as he enjoyed being called, spent a lifetime in his beloved Ybor City where he was born on Sept. 14, 1930. He was preceded in death by his parents, Benigno and Regina Gonzalez. He is survived by his wife, Rita (Sammie); a sister, Rita Fernandez (Albert); four children, Cynthia Luiaconi, Tina Turk (Phillip), Carmen Gonzalez-Sullivan, and Jaime Gonzalez (Stephanie); two grandchildren, Danielle Sullivan and James Gonzalez; two great-grandchildren, cousins Jerry Perez (Connie) and Aurora Llende (Frank), who were like siblings to him; stepdaughter, Kristy Blankenship; many nieces and nephews; as well as his family in Spain. Jaime was proud of his Spanish heritage but even prouder of the 66 years he spent as owner and operator of Acme Garage in Ybor City. He said he never wanted to retire and he almost got his wish because, until a few months ago, he faithfully went to the shop each and every morning. Jaime grew up working in his family's feed store. Those of his generation who grew up with him in Ybor would gleefully tell tales of his exploits. Some stories were touching as he was a generous man who quietly helped those less fortunate. Others were outrageous as he had a wild streak and knew how to have a good time. Most were funny because he was always testing his limits, like the time he and his friends called his father's feed store and ordered several bags of feed for delivery. After taking the order, loading the truck with feed, and driving off with the delivery address in hand, his father realized too late that the address given to him was his own. Jaime and his friends were hiding in the bushes so they could witness his father's reaction when he realized he had been scammed. And, oh boy, they weren't disappointed. Those stories and many others will now be retold many times in his memory. Jaime spent his last morning on earth enjoying a beautiful Sunday morning, having breakfast with his kids, visiting with his wife, telling a few stories, and having a few laughs. Please join his family for a celebration of his life on Friday, Nov. 28, at 12:30 pm, at Boza & Roel Funeral Home, 4730 N. Armenia Ave., Tampa. The family will receive friends on Friday from 11 am-12:30 pm, at the funeral home. Interment will follow in Centro Asturiano Memorial Park.

Published in the Tampa Bay Times from Nov. 26 to Nov. 27, 2014