On Friday, March 11th, 2011 another battle to cancer was lost. Our Beloved Mario A. Gonzalez passed away peacefully and was called home to God?s Kingdom after an incredibly brave fight against Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia. He was only 40 years of age, but in that short time he touched many lives.Mario was an Austin native, first generation born and raised here leaving only to serve his country in the U.S. Marine Corps, but always returning to the city he knew as home. Mario grew up in East Austin and even at a young age he was an activist in his community as a Brown Beret; Sticking up for what he believed in, a trait that Mario possessed until the day he perished. Mario was a kind, wonderful and giving soul, his sense of humor will never be duplicated. We will always miss and love you Mario, and you will FOREVER be in our hearts. ?Te quieremos tanto, y un dia estaremos juntos y felizes en el reino del Se?or?. Mario will always be dearly loved and is survived by his lifelong beloved and devoted best Friend; Mario Sifuentes, his Parents; Mario and Maria Gonzalez, Sisters; Ana Gonzalez, Norma Gonzalez, Brothers; David Gonzalez(Veronica), Cesar Gonzalez(Elisa), Grandfather; Isidro Gonzalez, 11 Nieces and Nephews and one Great-Niece each of whom he adored and a host of Aunts, Uncles and Cousins. He is preceded in death by his Niece Veronica Renee Gonzalez Gauna. Pallbearers; Joel Garza, Mario Sifuentes, Cesar Gonzalez, Salvador Rodriguez, David Gonzalez and Eric A. Davila. Recitation of the Holy Rosary, Monday at 7:00pm at Mission Funeral Home-Remembrance Chapel. Mario will Lie in State at Santa Barbara Catholic Church, 13713 FM 969 East on Tuesday at 12:00pm with the Mass of Christian Burial at 2:00pm. This will conclude the Funeral Ceremonies. A fellowship will follow at the Hall of Santa Barbara Catholic Church. The Family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in his memory to The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Texas Oncology, Bone Marrow Transplant Dept. @ Methodist Hospital in San Antonio, or Hospice Austin Christopher House.