'A champion for the Edmonton Latin community': Jesús González remembered

Edmontonians with Latin-American roots and members of the Alberta Avenue community are sharing tributes to Jesús González, a founder of Paraiso Tropical, who died peacefully on May 28, shortly after his 77th birthday. González is survived by his wife Alba, six children, 12 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren, as well as his siblings, friends, and loyal customers. "His legacy of perseverance, commitment, and dedication will continue to inspire us and guide the future growth of our company for many years to come," the business posted. A viewing is scheduled for June 3 at the Evergreen Funeral Home, and a memorial will take place there on June 4.

Jesús and Alba came to Edmonton from El Salvador in the late 1980s. While they found refuge from political and civil unrest, they missed the food from back home. So, with some other families, they opened Paraiso Tropical in 1991 and grew it into a two-location staple for Latin grocery items and prepared foods, as well as "a gathering space," his obituary noted. "Even after retirement, you could still find Don Jesus there most days, chatting with customers, catching up with friends, helping wherever he was needed, or enjoying some of his favourite foods." His son, Jesús González Rivas, now runs the market.

González Sr. is part of a broader story of business and life on 118 Avenue in northeast Edmonton, which is home to many businesses started by immigrants to Canada. He was a founding member of the Alberta Avenue Business Association, the BIA noted in a tribute to his legacy. "For over 30 years, Mr. González was a pillar of this community. A champion for the Edmonton Latin community and a beloved member of the Alberta Avenue family; his presence shaped this avenue in ways that will be felt for generations," the association posted. Paraiso Tropical is looking towards a new chapter that includes moving its 118 Avenue location to Manchester Square.