Captain Octavio Rafael Gonzalez

My heart still aches thinking of the wonderful person this world lost so tragically. Gloria, your kids, and your family remain in my prayers. I will always remember you as my Cuban protector!

I always believe that it is was meant for us to meet! Here we both ended up in this small town of Thibodaux @ Nicholls State University! We were both from Cuba, both lived in Miami, and then we finally met all the way in Louisiana! Even the way that we met has lingered with me, and I often share the story, especially with teenagers and college kids when I talk about being careful about doing stupid things! We don’t often think of how dangerous our decisions can be, and not everyone gets lucky to meet someone that comes out of nowhere to protect us. And, that’s where our lives finally meet! I decided to leave The Horse in downtown and walk to my apartment across town next to campus. My friend was not ready to go, and I just didn’t want to be there any longer. After a few drinks, I decided to walk, after midnight, in the dark streets. As I crossed Canal Street, a sports car pulled up, and I heard this guy ask, “Where are you going?” After telling you my plans, You said I was crazy and told me y’all would give me a ride. So, I proceeded to get in the vehicle, and you lost it with me! “What are you doing getting in a car with total strangers! You don’t know if are going to hurt you!” All I could say was that I recognized y’all from school and the football team. You did not take that as a good enough reason for me to be so trusting and getting in the vehicle with guys I didn’t know. You lectured me on the way home and for so long after that! The next day you came by to check on me, and continued to tell me to never do that again! We discovered that we had so much in common! Haha...neither one of us were good at idioms!!! We didn’t have an issue with the Spanish ones...but how we messed up the English ones!

I was so happy to introduce you to my cousin and brother, so you gained some Cuban friends in Louisiana. You protected me just as well as they did. It was nice to know I had my Cuban protector who set me straight when I did anything wrong. As time passed by, we lost touch from semesters to semesters, until we lost touch completely. We didn’t have cell phones or social media to get in touch with each other easily. Life went on and we went or separate ways. Years later, my husband went through some trainings that you attended, and he got to meet you. It sure is a small world!

Our hearts broke at the news we received that day. We attended your funeral. I didn’t get to go speak to your mom or family. I wanted to meet her and your siblings that you always spoke of. You were a wonderful brother and son, as you always spoke so great about your family. My heart went out to the love of your life, Gloria and your boys.

Fourteen years have passed, and you are remembered and missed by all whose lives were touched by you. What an amazing hero, person, and servant! May you Rest In Peace and watch over us. You will never be forgotten.

Ana Basas Rogers
Nicholls State University Cuban friend

June 19, 2020