Niembro, Spain – José Manuel González, a prominent figure in Asturian politics and sports administration, passed away this Saturday, March 14, at the age of 82. González leaves behind a significant legacy as a former national deputy and the long-serving president of the Territorial Judo Federation of Asturias for 16 years.
Throughout his career, González demonstrated a commitment to both public service and athletic development. He skillfully balanced his political responsibilities with his dedication to judo, fostering growth and recognition for the sport within the region. His passing marks the complete of an era for both the Asturian socialist movement and the local judo community.
González served as president of the Asturian Judo Federation from 1992 to 2008, a period marked by significant advancements for the sport. During his tenure, Asturias hosted several major events, including international martial arts festivals and the Absolute European Judo Championship. He also held the position of vice president of the Spanish Federation of Judo and Associated Sports from 1994 until his departure from the territorial presidency.
A Dual Career: Politics and Judo
Beyond his contributions to judo, González was a dedicated politician, serving three terms as a national deputy in the Congress of Deputies. He initially replaced Pedro de Silva in the role, becoming a vocal advocate for the reindustrialization of mining regions in Asturias. His work involved participation in the preparation of the Coal Mining Transformation Plan and the Reindustrialization Plans, as well as contributing to the creation of the Association of Mining Regions, based in Brussels.
Current president of the Territorial Judo Federation, José Ramón Díaz Maseda, highlighted González’s impact, stating, “He leaves a legion of friends.” Díaz Maseda emphasized that González’s leadership professionalized the sport in the region, adding, “With his arrival to the presidency, our sports became professional. The rest of us follow his path, his legacy. He did a lot of fine to judo.”
González’s path to leadership was rooted in his early life and education. He earned a double degree from the School of Technical Mining Engineers and the Faculty of Law, and began his career as a mining assistant at the Santiago Well in Aller. His involvement in labor movements began during the mining strikes of the 1960s and 70s, where he promoted a union group for mining technical engineers and became a member of the Hunosa Intercenter Committee.
Union Roots and Political Ascent
In 1975, González became involved with SOMA-UGT, contributing to the creation of the Section of Technicians and Staff, which he led as general secretary until 1983. His election as a deputy that year prompted his resignation from SOMA-UGT. As a member of the PSOE, he channeled his efforts into advocating for the revitalization of mining regions, a cause close to his heart.
González is survived by his wife, Aurora Carrera, and their three children: Sofía, Fernando, and José Manuel. Funeral services will be held on Sunday, March 16, at 12:00 p.m. In the church of Nuestra Señora de los Dolores de Barro, followed by cremation at the Eastern Crematorium. A memorial service will take place on Tuesday, March 17, at 6:00 p.m. In the Basilica of San Juan El Real in Oviedo.
The passing of José Manuel González represents a loss for both the political and sporting communities of Asturias. His dedication to public service and his unwavering support for judo will be remembered for years to reach. The impact of his work in advocating for mining regions continues to resonate, and his legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of leaders and athletes.
As Asturias mourns the loss of a dedicated public servant and sports leader, the focus now shifts to honoring his memory and continuing the work he championed. The future of judo in the region, and the ongoing efforts to revitalize mining communities, will serve as lasting testaments to his commitment and vision.
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