Guillermo Mendoza Gestopa

GUILLERMO (“GIL”) MENDOZA GESTOPA, age 91, died peacefully surrounded by his family on July 3, 2021, in San Diego, California. He is survived by his loving wife of almost 60 years Clara Rosal Gestopa, his three daughters, Laura Gestopa Bay, Celia Gestopa Sardina and Monica Gestopa Reyes, his seven grandchildren, Harris Bay, Soren Bay, Marlo Reyes, Alec Gestopa, Dominic Reyes, Lilia Reyes and Rita Sardina, as well as his two son-in-law’s Michael Reyes and Pasquale Sardina. He is preceded in death by his parents Andres and Concordia Gestopa, his two brothers Gerry Gestopa and Tomas Gestopa and his sister Lourdes Gestopa, of the Philippines.

Gil was born on February 10, 1930 in Tribunal, Mandaue City, Cebu, Philippines. He studied Journalism in the Philippines and in 1960 joined the United States Navy. While serving in the military he moved to various locations including Japan, Long Beach, El Centro and finally San Diego where he retired in 1987. He was a great family man and a loving father. He married Clara on September 17, 1961, and the couple had three daughters together.

Gil was an active man who was deeply involved in civil service, his Church and community events for most of his life. He enjoyed music, bowling, fishing, barbequing and being with friends singing Karaoke. He would always be up for a game of chess. His family and friends will always remember him as a gracious, kind, loving, funny, loyal and generous person.

A public viewing will take place where all are welcome on July 22, 2021, from 5:00-9:00 pm at Glen Abbey Chapel of the Roses at 3838 Bonita Road, Bonita, California 91902. Funeral and burial services will be held privately on July 23, 2021 at 1:00 p.m.

The family would like to thank the Conti family, Art of Hospice, Bonita Guest Home and all the wonderful family and staff who helped care for him.