Frank Louis Gonzales, affectionately known as Frankie G., rock-n-rolled into this world on June 22, 1972, son of Wanda and Joe Gonzales, brother of Tony and Joseph. He is survived by several aunts, uncles, cousins, and a large circle of friends who became family. He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Wanda, brother Tony and many of his rock and roll heroes. Frankie G. played his final guitar chord on May 25, 2026.
There are some people who come into your life and leave a mark, and then there are people like Frankie, who become woven into the very fabric of it. For over 30 years, Frankie was far more than an employee—he was our family. From the early days of Goodfellows to the move to The Local at 97, Frankie was there every step of the way. Through the good times, the hard times, the celebrations, and the challenges, you could always count on him. He wasn’t just part of the story—he helped write it. Over the years, coworkers and customers became lifelong friends and extended family, Frankie built relationships that went far beyond the walls of the restaurant. He had a way of making people feel welcome, whether it was through a conversation, a joke, a shared laugh, or simply being his authentic unique self.
A graduate of Malabar High School, Frankie played football and developed a lifelong passion for music which was one of Frankie G.’s greatest passions. It wasn’t just something he listened to—it was a big part of who he was. His rock and roll family meant the world to him and you knew it because he would tell you all about it. He spent years playing bass in many amazing bands, which he truly loved and living his rock-and-roll dream. He loved concerts, live music, and talking music with anyone who would listen. Whether you knew Frankie G. for five minutes or five years, chances are you heard a story about his bands, more bands, so many shows and concerts, or the musicians he loved. And then there was Frankie’s sense of humor. His quirky jokes, his ability to poke fun at just about everything, that mischievous grin, and his unmistakable little laugh could brighten even the toughest day. He loved comedy, stand up comedians, loved making people laugh, and never took life too seriously. Those moments, the laughter he shared so freely, are some of the things we will miss the most.
Frankie also poured his heart into cooking. So many customers would come in asking specifically for Frankie to make their pizza or stromboli because they knew it would be done just right. The famous “Frankie Special” stromboli became a favorite for many and remains a reminder of the care he put into his craft. Of course, anyone who knew Frankie G. knows we can’t tell his story without mentioning Bud Light and Jager. They were never too far away from some of his best stories, biggest laughs, and legendary adventures. And while there are plenty of stories and shenanigans that probably shouldn’t be repeated, those who shared those moments with him know exactly what we’re talking about. They were the kind of unforgettable memories that become legends among friends—pure, unforgettable
Frankie G. More than anything, Frankie was a loyal friend. He was someone you could sit with for hours, listening to stories that somehow got better every time he told them. He loved deeply, laughed often, and lived life in his own unique way. He was a beloved member of a large family of friends who loved him dearly and who were fortunate enough to spend time in Frankie’s world. The truth is, places and people change, businesses grow, and years pass, but there are certain people whose presence can never be replaced. Frankie G. was one of those people. His laughter will echo in our memories, his music will play on, and his spirit will always be a part of the family he helped create. Frankie G., thank you for the friendship, the loyalty, the laughs, the music, the stories, and the memories. Thank you for being part of our lives for so many years. You will be missed more than words can express, loved more than you probably ever realized, and remembered for as long as those stories continue to be told. Rock on, Frankie G. The stage may be bigger now, but we know you’re up there with a guitar in your hands, a cold Bud Light nearby, making everyone laugh and keeping the rockin’ music going. Until we meet again, brother. You will forever be loved and never be forgotten.
To honor Frankie’s life and the joy he brought to so many, we at The Local @ 97 will host a Celebration of Life on Monday, June 22, 2026, beginning at 5:00 p.m. Friends, loved ones and all who were touched by his life, are warmly invited to come together in remembrance, share stories, and celebrate his legacy or just have a Bud Light & a Jager in his honor. The evening will feature food and live music performed by many of his cherished lifelong brothers in music, coming together in heartfelt tribute to our one and only Frankie G., whose spirit, friendship, and music will continue to live on in all who knew him.
Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services by Wappner are honored to serve the family of Frank Louis Gonzales.
Words of condolence may be expressed at www.wappner.com
Funeral Home: Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services by Wappner
Website: www.wappner.com