Obituary for Norberto Gomez Mendez

He was born June 6, 1958, in San Antonio de Cabeza #38, Union de Reyes Municipality, Matanzas province Cuba to Maximo Ibrahin Gomez Perez and Elina Mendez Garcia. In 1980, Norberto came to America; first, to Florida where a missionary accompanied him to Ft. McCoy and eventually, he arrived in La Crosse. Norberto was a survivor. When he arrived in the United States he did not speak or know any English. Norberto taught himself to read, write, and communicate by studying textbooks; he worked very diligently to become a smart man.

He was an extremely hard worker. Norberto worked as a mechanic; and will be remembered by his customers as someone they could call at any time with an automobile problem and he knew how to fix it.

He loved music, playing guitar, and dancing; he was a great dancer, winning many a dance off challenge. When Norberto arrived in the United States Rick Springfield's song, “Jesse’s Girl” was popular; he loved it so much he named his son, Jesse, in honor of the song. He also enjoyed Kung Fu movies and fishing; and he LOVED the ladies.

Despite the challenges Norberto faced throughout his life he will be remembered as a fighter; and when he was there, he truly was a good father.

Survivors include his loving children; many special great-grandchildren; his sister, Elina Esperanza Gomez Mendez; niece, Raisa Perez Gomez; other relatives; and many friends.

Norberto was preceded in death by his parents and good friend, Jose Estrada.

A celebration of life will be held from 2:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., December 10, 2023, at Robins Nest Bar and Grill 328 Goddard St, La Crosse, WI 54603.

Online condolences may be offered on this site.