Wilfredo “Willie” Gonzalez Rivera, 83, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2026, in Fort Pierce, Florida. He was born on December 21, 1942, in Arecibo, Puerto Rico.

Willie lived a full and vibrant life marked by hard work, compassion, and a deep love for family and community. From 1962 to 1983, he made his home in New York, where he proudly owned and operated his ice cream parlor, Papa Sweet, bringing joy to countless families. In 1983, he moved to Dover, Delaware, before settling in Florida in 1988, where he continued his entrepreneurial spirit and later served as a Medical Consultant. In this role, he went above and beyond, helping patients get to and from their appointments and regularly checking in on them—an example of his generous heart and genuine care for others.

In 1990, Willie married the love of his life, Olga Iris Pagan, and together they built a life rooted in love, laughter, and devotion. He is survived by his beloved wife, Olga Gonzalez of Fort Pierce, Florida; his children, Zahirin Gonzalez, Wilfredo Gonzalez, and Larisa Gonzalez, all of Puerto Rico.

Willie attended high school and spent much of his life as a successful business owner. He had a well-known sweet tooth, which was perfectly reflected in his beloved ice cream business. Beyond his work, Willie had many passions—he loved animals, especially helping sheltered pets find their forever homes, had an appreciation for antique cars, and truly enjoyed social gatherings. He had a gift for making people laugh and was known for his warm personality and kind spirit.

He was a proud member of the Spanish American Club and Calvary Church in Port St. Lucie, where he found community and fellowship.

Willie will be remembered for his big heart, his unwavering kindness, and the countless lives he touched through his generosity and humor. His legacy of love and compassion will live on in all who knew him.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Haisley Funeral Home in Fort Pierce. A funeral service will be held on Thursday at 1:00 PM at Haisley Funeral Home, with burial to follow at White City Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Willie’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those fortunate enough to have known him.