Sometimes, even after a pillar of the community passes, their impact continues to shine through the people and places they touch. 

That’s certainly the case for Jose “Gomie” Gomez.  

His impact can be felt everywhere, because that’s exactly where he was — serving others, bringing people together and building relationships within the community.   

Since his passing on Sept. 20, 2025, Gomez has been dearly missed, as emphasized in the community's mission to rally and continue his legacy of love and support for others.  

That legacy is now being carried forward by his widow, Sandra Gomez, his family, and his many friends. 

Soulmate to “Gomie,” Sandra, owner of Gription Tire Pros and North Idaho Towing, said she hopes to continue her husband’s passion for service and the community. The company’s recent remodel and upcoming customer appreciation event May 15 are part of an effort to honor the same community that has supported her and her family since they arrived in Sandpoint 17 years ago.  

“Everyone’s been so supportive, and I just really appreciate everyone’s support in still coming here. He was a big reason why a lot of people came here, so it’s hard that he’s not here. We miss him,” Gomez said. “Being a small, family-owned business, one of the last tire shops that are locally owned, I just really appreciate the community support.”  

Gomez recalled her husband as a man who loved being involved in the community and the events around town, as was evident in the community’s response to his passing.  

Bonner County EMS was one of many groups that shared their sorrows for the loss of “Gomie,” along with Sandpoint Elks and many other members of the community who were touched by his acts of service, whether it be through towing services at a late hour, receiving new tires despite financial strains, or even just a smile in passing. 

“He has been a huge supporter of public safety in the Bonner County area and a significant reason our ambulance fleet remained on the road. There wasn’t a time when we asked for help, he didn’t jump into action,” EMS officials shared in a Facebook post. “So many stories can be told. He was very much a part of the Bonner County EMS family. If we called him, he came, no questions asked. Our community has lost a tremendous person.” 

In honor of her husband, Gomez said Gription Tire will be hosting its annual customer appreciation event, paired with a grand re-opening of Gription Tire Pros that highlights the store’s remodel, an initiative that was originally spearheaded by "Gomie." Gomez said the event will feature her husband’s famous tacos, just the way he used to make them.  

“He enjoyed meeting people and bringing people together and just having a good time. So, we want to do a customer appreciation, and we have this remodel that he wasn’t able to see ... It’s just time to bring everyone together so they can see what he’s not here to enjoy,” Gomez said.  

Along with Gomie’s famous tacos, the event will offer lots of giveaways and opportunities for community members to celebrate the remodel. The event will start at 2 p.m. on Friday, May 15. 

    Jose and Sandra Gomez
  

    Gription Tire Pro before a recent remodel
  

    Gription Tire Pro entryway after the recent remodel