September 30, 1932 – July 7, 2019

Gilbert Sifuentez, Jr., 86, passed away peacefully at his home in Bryan on Sunday, July 7, 2019. He was born in Crystal City, Texas on September 30, 1932 to Gilberto Sifuentez, Sr. and Anita Escamilla Sifuentez.

They moved here from Eagle Pass, TX where his father was a Deputy City Marshall, when Gilbert Jr. was quite young during World War II. His father soon began working maintenance with St. Joseph’s Hospital. Sister Sebastion later hired Gilbert Jr. as Landry Manager and he devoted himself to the hospital and the Sisters, whom he loved for 45 years. At one time, his wife, Sarah, worked as a Nurse, his mother, Anita, was a Specialty Cook for the Convent, and his mother-in-law, Joba Ramirez, cooked for the cafeteria, all together. His son, Gilbert III, also worked and retired from St. Joseph’s. During these years, Gilbert Jr. sold cars, “flipped” houses, and began renting houses as well. For many years after his retirement, he volunteered at St. Joseph’s and was the first “Pink Lady” male member. He also volunteered at the Med, the Salvation Army, and Twin City Mission.

Self-educated, he was devoted to the Catholic Church, studied the Bible and religion with passion. He read extensively about history, politics, and many subjects. He was always up for good conversation and smart debate. Gilbert Jr. was a self made man, always learning, always trying to improve himself. He was devoted to his family and loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In his early years, he was an avid hunter and fisherman, spending countless hours at Gibbons Creek and Big Creek Marina in Somerville. He also enjoyed dancing and listing to Country and Western music and traveled extensively. As of late, he was a member of the Brazos Senior Center and enjoyed spending time there playing dominoes and socializing. Until his illness, he could be found weekday mornings at the McDonald’s having coffee and exchanging stories with friends and local dignitaries.

He will be remembered by his family as strong, spiritual, kind, generous, and most of all loving.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gilberto and Anita Sifuentez; sister, Annie; brother, Noah; and his daughter-in-law, Lita.

Gilbert Jr. is survived by his wife of 68 years, Sarah Sifuentez; son, Gilbert Sifuentez III; daughter, Patricia Golson (Tom); grandson, Gabriel (Hope); granddaughter, Sonya; great-grandchildren, Nicholas, Daniella, and Gideon is due October 2019.

Special thanks to Trini Perez and the staff at Health Quest, Dr. Mark Higgins, and the staff at Hospice Brazos Valley for their wonderful care. The family would also like to thank our loving family and friends that did so much to help during Gilbert’s illness.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to your favorite charity.

A Celebration of Life will be held privately for the family. Services are in the care of Callaway-Jones Funeral and Cremation Centers, Bryan-College Station.