Gilbert built his life on steady effort and quiet determination—qualities that showed early in the discipline and teamwork he brought to the football field and basketball court. Those same values carried through the years in the way he approached work and the people around him.
For almost 40 years, Gilbert worked operating heavy machinery, taking pride in the honest demands of the job and the tangible results it produced. Among the many projects he contributed to, he helped build the overpass for HWY 34 over Interstate 25—work that stands as a lasting part of the community’s landscape and a reflection of the dependable, hard-working life he lived.
In 1993, Gilbert married his wife, Kathy Valencia. They were introduced at a mutual friend’s house, and from that beginning they built a life together grounded in commitment and companionship.
Gilbert found joy in the simple and meaningful pleasures of life. He loved a variety of music, enjoyed sharing a beer with friends, and valued the time spent in good company. He also loved to travel, with Costa Rica holding a special place in his heart as his favorite destination.
Gilbert is survived by his wife, Kathy Valencia; sisters, Maria Corola and Dora Esparza (Tom); brothers, Larry Valencia (Viola), Ernie Valencia, Ricky Valencia (Donna); sister-in-laws, Sandra Ballard (Randy), Rosemary Polimeni; and brother-in-law, Randy Bell (Peggy).
He was preceded in death by his father, Nazaria Valencia; his mother, Felipita Gallegos Valencia; his sister, Rita Blatter; and his brothers, Fred Valencia and Alex Valencia.
A Celebration of life will be held Wednesday, October 28, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. -4:00 p.m. at Kimberly's Event Center, 1029 8th Avenue, Greeley, CO 80631.
