Jose M. Gil

Chema is survived by his beloved wife, Esther Gil née Garibay; three daughters, Yolanda Gil Martinez, Martha Gil, Laura Gil-LeVario; four sons, Luis Gil, Gilberto Gil, Ricardo Gil, Sergio Gil; eight grandchildren, and three great grandchildren.

Son of Justa Granados and José Maria Gil, he was born August 20, 1941 in San Esteban, Michoacan, Mexico. Always responsible and hard working, as a teenager he would deliver 3, 20 liter steel milk jugs from his parents’ dairy, one tied on each side of his bicycle and one on his bike rack, everyday before making his way to school. After graduating high school he worked as a cookware salesman and later as a debt collector before coming to work to the Central Valley as a cook for migrant workers and later as a farm laborer.

Chema embodied the peacefulness and tranquility of a sunny calm day in nature. He lived an uncomplicated quiet life with great mindfulness and empathy. Whether it be an injured animal or a person in need, his compassion was limitless. Already with seven children, when a known distraught teenager showed up at his doorstep, he didn’t hesitate to take him in and provided him with a nurturing home until he was able to stand firmly on his own two feet. He was one, of the many he helped, in any way he could.

Chema’s easygoing and understanding disposition brought much comfort and harmony to those in his life. He always gave sound advice and reassurance when needed. He was easily humored by his son’s silly jokes and often enjoyed a playful banter with his loved ones. He listened carefully and never judged. He was a steady and reliable source of unconditional love.

His family will hold special and dear memories of him close to their hearts. Memories of him riding bicycles with his children and of playing with them with their toy cars. Memories of how he held his wife’s hand when they went out for walks. Also, amusing memories, of him having a sweet tooth and how he often kept his own stash of pan dulce in his work truck should the need arise. Memories of his devotion to his very loved and spoiled dog, Daisy, tending to her every need with much care.

Chema will be greatly missed by the love of his life and wife of 64 years and by all who knew him. Chema will most be remembered for being a loving family man and a good friend. His greatest attributes of kindness, love, and peacefulness live on in his children of which he took great pride in raising to be responsible, respectful, and caring people.

Wake will be held at Lakewood Chapel in Hughson from 4:00 to 8:00 PM on January 2nd. Mass will be held at 11:00 AM on January 3rd at St. Anthony’s Church in Hughson. Burial following mass at Lakewood Cemetery.

“Love is the purest form of a soul at peace.”

Matthew Donnelly