Canuto González was born in Guairá Department, Paraguay. At the age of 15, he joined the military alongside his brother Félix during the Chaco War (1932-1935) to secure the release of their father, an endeavor they succeeded in achieving. Tragically, Félix lost his life during their first battle.
Serving with the R.I. 2 Ytororó Infantry Unit, Canuto endured severe hardships, including extreme thirst and hunger, and even sustained a hand injury that cost him a finger. Despite these challenges, he remained steadfast in his duty, contributing to Paraguay’s effort to reclaim its Chaco territory. His service spanned over three decades, from 1932 to 1966.
After the war, Canuto returned to his rural roots, working in agriculture and finding love at age 35 with Francisca, the mother of his seven children. The family grew to include 17 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Francisca passed away around 1990.
His age was verified by James Roberts and Stefan Maglov, and validated by LongeviQuest on 29 January 2025.
* “Celebran los 109 años de Canuto González, uno de los tres últimos excombatientes vivos” – La Nación, 18 January 2025