Page 48 - December_2015_Life_in_Naples_Magazine

RIVING WHILE IMPAIRE CIOMMPMAUNCITTY “Recovery was a long
The Chris Gonzales Story process of multiple
reconstructive surgeries

”and months of intense
physical therapy.

Fby Sandra Lee Buxton
amily pictures, we all have and love them. It is a reminder of those who are
important in our lives, of happy times and a record of our journey through life.
Some people carry pictures in their wallet, on their phone, their desk at work
or maybe even in the car. Wherever they are they bring a smile when we see them. One
such photo meant a great deal and I’ll share that with you shortly.

Chris is described as a super husband and dad by his wife, always available for his
family. Raising two sons and a daughter is his pride and joy. He and his wife ingrained
family values along with responsible behaviors into their daily lives. The goal was
clear cut, ensuring that their children would become productive adults living lives of
integrity. Chris enjoys sports and sharing that time with his own children. A supporter
of the well-being of children in general he participated in youth activities and endorses
the “keep fit” mentality. One such endeavor was with the Pop Warner Youth football
team where he volunteered for seven years, he also worked with Wounded Warriors
and as a Police Explorer volunteer and coach. A role that was very meaningful was
working alongside of other volunteers freshening up homes for members of the
military and widows of the Sheriff ’s Office(CCSO).

All of this brings us to another passion in Chris’s life which is Law Enforcement.
He began his career in 1993 with the Collier County Sheriff ’s Office and has held a
variety of leadership roles within the department, all with increasing responsibility.
In the recent past he was the Administrative Sergeant with the Safety and Traffic
Enforcement Bureau. Currently he is the Interim Director of the Communications