Miguel Gonzalez, one of the founders and owners of Vallarta Supermarkets, died Tuesday, Nov. 23 as a result of an automobile accident. He was 56. Mr. Gonzalez’s passion in building the Vallarta Supermarkets family business was contagious and he corralled anyone he could partner with to enjoy the journey.

After graduating from Van Nuys High School, Mr. Gonzalez had an eye for buildings and design, and pursued his passion in architecture, receiving his associates in arts degree.  His love for architecture and interior design greatly enhanced the flavor and ambiance within the Vallarta Supermarkets experience for all shoppers to enjoy as seen in the facades, colors, lines and angles within the stores — in many instances creating a fusion blend of modern and nostalgic references to his hometown, Jalostotitlan, Jalisco, Mexico. 

As a young man, Mr. Gonzalez worked at Jet Propulsion Laboratories in Pasadena, CA, as a quality assurance technician ensuring the highest tolerances were attained in space shuttle components. He left a promising career at JPL to kickstart Vallarta Supermarkets with his family. His strong work ethic and meticulous attention to detail increased and sharpened as he and his executive team redesigned and built future store locations, constantly improving and adjusting to technology and retail sales efficiencies for a pleasant shopping and work experience.

His life motto was “work hard and play harder,” and Mr. Gonzalez shared enjoying life to the fullest with all.  The company said working with Mr. Gonzalez required his staff running on tippy toes to keep up with his excitement and energy to offer excellent services and quality products to customers.

Mr. Gonzalez’s most recent creation, Sayulita Tap Room (established October 2020 in the Indio, CA, store location), epitomizes his vision of melding the following: spending quality time with loved ones, excellent food and drinks, exciting entertainment and live music all within an exhilarating environment to make lasting memories.

Mr. Gonzalez leaves behind his high school sweetheart and wife, Maria Teresa; his two sons, Christian and Luis Angel; and granddaughter, Aria Soleil (of Christian and Roxy); in addition to his mother (Eva), his father (Felix) and his brother, sisters, cousins, aunts and uncles.