Bridgewater Man Dies While Competing In Endurance Race

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — The community is mourning the loss of a Bridgewater father of two who is known for being an extremely talented artist and author.

Jerome Luiz Gonzalez, 44, died on Saturday while competing in a 24-hour endurance race in North Carolina. Training for events such as "Spartan Races" were a passion of his.

"Today our hearts are very heavy. Our family lost a beautiful soul in our son Jerome Gonzalez. He was a wonderful son, brother, father and friend and I know I speak for many when I say that he will be greatly missed," his obituary stated.

Gonzalez is well known for his graffiti artwork, which can be seen in places such as his cousin's Hairitage Hair Salon in Somerville.

He published his first book "Pothole" in 2016, which is about a New Jersey graffiti artist.

"During this time we mourn the unexpected loss of his life but we also remember all the the beautiful moments that we have been blessed to share in," his obituary stated. "He had a huge, selfless heart and amazing talents, which he never failed to share with those around him and there was never any doubt that he loved his family and friends."

Surviving are his children Julian Luiz and Bella Maria, his parents Hector and Sonia (Torres) Gonzalez, the mother of his children Bethania Maria Gonzalez and his siblings Markanthony, Steve, Isadora and Vincent.

His sister Amanda Rose predeceased him.

Visiting hours will begin at 4 p.m. on Friday and conclude with a Funeral Service at 8 p.m. at the Cusick Funeral Home, Somerville. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Jerome's children in Trust, C/O Hector Gonzalez, 20 VanDoren Ave., Somerville, NJ 08876.

An outpouring of grief has flooded social media and on his obituary.

"What a tremendous loss, not just for your family and friends, but for the world," said Amanda Sullivan.

"He was a kind person who believed in the good of people. I was fortunate to have met him and to call him a friend. Romie you will be missed! RIP," said J. Lee.

"Your smile lit up a room. You had a gift to make us all feel so special. Your kindness was immeasurable. You left us way too soon." said Mary Anne McCabe.

"I am honored and blessed to have known Jerome. He was truly an amazing artist, writer and most of all an exemplary father. He will be missed. My deepest condolences," said LaKay Mosby.

(Image via family and friends of Jerome Gonzalez.)

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