Gilbert Gallego Sr.

Good evening, I am Annette Gallego-Hopkins, the youngest daughter of Gilbert Gallego. We wish to share the cherished memories of our father, who has been our beloved and esteemed figure throughout our lives. My parents are my greatest inspirations, as vital to me as each heartbeat.

Our father, a selfless gentleman, expressed his love through his faith, craftsmanship, and teachings. He instilled in his family the values of courage, independence, and the importance of nurturing a loving home.

On November 16, 2024, at the age of 94, just short of his 95th birthday, he passed away peacefully at his home, in the presence of his wife of 69 years, Beatrice Gallego, and his devoted family.

Born on January 13, 1930, in San Antonio, Texas, to Cristobal and Maria Gallego, he was the third of four children. From his father's example, he learned responsibility early, working at home and on the ranch, building and repairing things, he was always a diligent and grateful son. Daddy epitomized the loving and devoted family man. Mama likely recognized this, as her heart was already devoted to Jesus when they met at the Catholic Chancery. Yet, through friendship and a yearlong courtship, Daddy wed the love of his life on August 28, 1955.

He belonged to St. James the Apostle Catholic Church and cherished it deeply. He instilled a legacy of faith, diligence, and kindness in all his children and their children. Daddy loved his family fiercely and was proud of each of us for our successes and attempts equally. Daddy offered encouragement through simple words and abundant love. He was the most authentic person I knew, second only to my mama. He never spoke a harsh word nor used his hands for anything other than good. A gentleman through and through with the strong shoulders and strength of Superman in our eyes. Daddy was many things to us. A great man, a humble man, and a hard-working loving man to name a few. He gave so much of his time and energy to his community and neighbors. Throughout our childhood and into adulthood, there were countless instances when neighbors and family members sought help, and Daddy would always respond with eagerness. He was a blue-collar worker, steadfast in his faith, who cherished his family and friends, and was cherished by them in return. At home, he was a doting father and teacher, taking pride in teaching us self-reliance. Upon moving out, each of us received a personal toolbox from him. Instructions were unnecessary; we knew where to seek his guidance. His goal was always to inspire continuous learning, enabling us to support ourselves, one another, and eventually, those in need.

In his youth and throughout adulthood, Daddy had a passion for working with various materials such as metal, leather, locks, cars, and wood, which he further honed by taking architectural classes to enhance his skills in construction, electrical work, plumbing, and more. His versatility made him a true Jack of all trades. He served in the Army and was actively involved in the Chamber of Commerce and Community Organized for Public Services (C.O.P.S.). He retired as a hardware salesman from Allen and Allen. He dedicated numerous hours to volunteering at El Jardin de St. James, where he repaired the van and assisted with various projects, finding joy in contributing to the community alongside his bride.

He enjoyed having all his family around him and sharing family stories of his younger days. He had such a way of telling stories it always captured our attention. His sense of humor made him laugh at his own stories and boy was his laughter contagious. Daddy loved western movies and popcorn. Snacks of all kinds and stories of how it cost his brother and himself a quarter to pay for the movies, popcorn, and drinks. They always had sufficient funds because they skipped the bus to save the dime! We loved his fishing stories with his cousins, the love he had for horses, and best of all how mama stole his heart just by being in the same room. Mama was daddy’s muse and love. Daddys true passion was creating and providing for mama. Countless occasions of him showering mama with just the right project to make their home more functional and perfect for them. Always beautiful treasures from the heart. His desire to please and show her love was beautiful and exquisite. They were an Olympic team of support. As our children put it, Grandpa and Grandma are couple goals! His heart was always where she was and never did a day go by without them showing thoughtfulness and great affection. As his family grew, so did his workshop. He never ceased to amaze us with all he could do. Our problem in doing something was never a problem with his help. Earlier this year, my sister Terry and I asked for a corn hole game and Daddy had them ready the next day for our Annual Easter picnic with the best wood and hardware in our own Gallego Park. He made us all so many treasured items, all we have to do is look around our homes to feel his love. So many surprise visits with thoughtful gifts that were personalized. My husband often teased me about having daddy over so he could get a home cooked meal. Daddy always received the best of the best from each of us because he gave us the best of the best.

I love telling everyone how our Daddy never drank or smoked. Father Emmitt playfully asked, if Gilbert never drank or smoked, what did he do for sin? We could not help but laugh at this.

Both Daddy and Mama taught us to give our best. Mama showed us this in her last acts with daddy over the years but especially this year. Always by his side with unfaltering love and care till death do them part. Daddy will be remembered for always having a twinkle in his eyes, a smile on his lips, a laugh that created more laughter and a hearty appetite for food and life.

All of his nieces and nephews knew him as Uncle Gilbert, the fun uncle with whimsical jokes. To our friends growing up they all called him Dad because he was loving, energetic, and always willing to put up with our mischief. As Grandpa, he was the snack provider, teaser, encourager, and crafter of surprises.

No matter how exhausted or unwell he felt, Dad was always eager to help us with our questions about learning new skills or to lend a hand himself. He was far more valuable than YouTube or Google, and best of all, he came without any ads! His love, integrity, and legacy will live on through our family and the memories we cherish. We will forever be grateful and give thanks to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for blessing us with parents who exemplified strong faith, guidance, joy, and love. Dad provided us with a profound and enlightening journey through his life, which we will share with our children and future generations.

Daddy is survived by wife, Beatrice Gallego, daughters Terry Gallego and Annette Gallego-Hopkins (Christopher Hopkins), grandchildren, Stephanie Richardson, Gilbert Gallego 3, Hannah Bea, Annalyce Beatrice, Gilbert, great grandchildren, Kayla, Alana, Kaleb, and Elijah and sisters Beatrice and Mary. He was predeceased by his son Gilbert Gallego Jr. and brother Arturo Gallego

Services at St. James Catholic church, 907 W. Theo Ave., San Antonio, TX. 78225. December 3, 2024, viewing at 4:30, Rosary @ 6:30.

December 4, 2024, Procession from Roy Akers

Mass at 10:00 with interment at San Fernando II

In lieu of flowers donations to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society are appreciated.