Gilberto "Gilbert" Vasquez Sanchez Obituary (1931 - 2023)

Gilberto "Gilbert" Vazquez, 91, passed away at home in Imperial, California, on July 5, 2023, with his family lovingly by his side. He was extremely proud of his family and was truly grateful God blessed him with a long and well lived life. Gilbert was born in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. In his teens he attended Seminario San Agustin in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, to become a priest, however life took a different turn. Shortly thereafter he worked as a Pharmaceutical Representative for Lilly Pharmaceuticals in his home state of Jalisco, Mexico. In his early twenties he relocated to Mexicali, Baja California North, where he met the love of his life and wife of 69 precious years, Victoria Vazquez. It was a "love at first sight" encounter. Blanca Nieves Neveria, in Mexicali, was their first date. Gilbert was a dedicated husband and a caring father. A noble and sincere soul, our father was a giving man who worked tirelessly to ensure his family had everything they needed. He faced every challenge in life with admirable courage and strength. Gilbert was very intelligent and encouraged his children to attain an education. Although fully employed he enrolled at Imperial Valley College and was listed numerous times on the President's Honor Roll. He excelled in his classes and was granted a full ride scholarship to attend Cal Poly Pomona to further his education, however this was an impossibility as he was the sole provider of the family. The responsibility to take care of his family prevailed over the opportunity of pursuing an education. He never regretted that decision. During the 1950's, Gilbert worked at the Comandancia de Policia en Mexicali as an Intake Clerk Typist, and Banco de Comercio as a Bookkeeper. In the early 60's and 70's Gilbert was employed as a bartender at the Barbara Worth Country Club, Airporter Inn, and Stockman's Club. Gilbert was especially and widely known in the valley for working at the notorious Owl Cafe in El Centro, California, in the late 1980's and early 1990's. He retired shortly thereafter which afforded him the time to travel extensively to various states of Mexico especially his favorites, Jalisco and Nayarit. Gilbert was predeceased by his daughter Maria, who passed away in 2011. He is survived by his wife, Victoria Vazquez; his sisters, Teresa Vazquez and Eva Vazquez; his eight surviving children, Eva Gutierrez, Aide (Lorenzo) Suarez, Victoria Eugenia Vazquez, Gilbert (Laura) Vazquez; Hilda Vasquez, Patricia Vazquez, Silvia (Enrique) Oceguera, and Yolanda (Adolfo) Leon; twenty grandchildren and seventeen great grandchildren. He was a devoted father and grandfather who had a knack for affectionately/lovingly creating nicknames for family members. We loved that about him. He had an amazing memory and loved telling stories about his youth and family history. Gilbert was a devout Catholic and faithful to his church. He held various roles/positions and served with gladness and decorum. He was a man of his word, selfless, and reputable. Gilbert is well remembered for his gallantry which won the hearts, admiration, and respect of many. We love you and miss you dearly. The Rosary will be prayed at 9:30 to 10:00 am followed by the eulogy and "Memorial Mass" at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church on Friday, September 8, 2023. The "Celebration of Life Reception" will follow thereafter at the Imperial Moose Lodge #1033, from 12:00 to 4:00pm. Family and friends are welcome to attend. Should you feel so inclined to send flowers please contact Cynthia's Flower Connection at (760) 370-3222 or cynthiasflowerconnection.com.