Gilbert H. Banuelos

Gilbert H. Banuelos August 28, 1933 – April 13, 2025

Heaven welcomed a very special angel on April 13, 2025, as Gilbert Banuelos passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family. He was 91 years old.

Gilbert was born on August 28, 1933, in Moss Landing to his parents, John Banuelos and Carmen Garcia. In 1951, he met the love of his life, Lupe, and after just a month and a half of courtship, they were married on December 10, 1951. This year, they would have celebrated 74 years of marriage.

A devoted and hardworking man, Gilbert began working at a young age in various agricultural crops. Over the years, he was employed by Sears Schuman Company, Union Ice, and later, Dobler & Sons Company. He took great pride in his work, always starting his days early with a whistle and his signature tune, ready to take on whatever lay ahead. Gilbert retired at age 65, enjoying his well-earned rest and peaceful days at home.

He will be fondly remembered as a humble, quiet man with a heart full of love. Gilbert cherished time with his family and appreciated the occasional chat with neighbors who looked out for him and were always ready to lend a helping hand.

He is survived by his loving wife, Lupe; three children, Cathy Alamillo, Gloria Valencia, and Gilbert Banuelos Jr. (Annabelle); his brother, John Banuelos; several cousins; seven grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John Banuelos and Carmen Garcia; his grandfather, Natividad Hernandez; his step-mom, Mary Banuelos; his step-brother, Chavelo (Chuck) Estrada; his son-in-law, Sal Valencia; two aunts, Juana Hernandez and Marcelina Toussaint; and his cousin, Michael Hernandez.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the wonderful hospice staff who cared for Gilbert during his month-long journey. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Santa Cruz Hospice in memory of Gilbert H. Banuelos at 949 Disc Drive, Scotts Valley, CA 95066.

A Mass will be held on May 1, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Holy Eucharist Church, located at 527 Corralitos Road in Watsonville. Burial will follow at Valley Catholic Cemetery, 2445 East Lake Avenue, Watsonville.