Gilberto Sanchez

Gilberto graduated from Roman Baldorioty de Castro High School and went on to earn a degree in accounting from the Universidad Interamericana de Puerto Rico. On February 1, 1963, he married the love of his life, Marta L. Sanchez, with whom he shared over six decades of devotion and partnership.

He proudly served in the United States Coast Guard, a career that shaped his character, values, and lifelong friendships. After retiring from military service, he continued his professional journey with NAFA and Vistana Resorts. Gilberto was also an active member of the USCG Chief Petty Officers Association.

A man of wide interests and deep passions, Gilberto loved baseball, reading, and listening to the timeless sounds of Motown. His warmth, wisdom, and gentle humor enriched the lives of all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his two sons, his older brother and sister, and his parents.

He is survived by his loving wife, Marta L. Sanchez; his two children, Maribel and Juan Carlos Sanchez; and his cherished grandchildren: Marianna J., Hugo L., Jose A. Jr., Jossievette M., Inai A., Gabriel A., Edgardo L., and Alexander Y. He also leaves behind two beloved great-granddaughters, Yarielis L. and Arielis M., as well as his loyal emotional support dog, Tiri II.

Gilberto’s legacy lives on in the family he nurtured, the friendships he treasured, and the countless lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

"The Watch"

For twenty years

This sailor has stood the watch

While some of us were in our bunks at night

This sailor stood the watch

While some of us were in school learning our trade

This shipmate stood the watch

Yes.. even before some of us were born into this world

This shipmate stood the watch

In those years when the storm clouds of war were seen brewing on the horizon of history

This shipmate stood the watch

Many times he would cast an eye ashore and see his family standing there

Needing his guidance and help

Needing that hand to hold during those hard times

But he still stood the watch

He stood the watch for twenty years

He stood the watch so that we, our families and

Our fellow countrymen could sleep soundly in safety, Each and every night

Knowing that a sailor stood the watch

Today we are here to say

'Shipmate... the watch stands relieved

Relieved by those You have trained ,Guided, and Led

Shipmate you stand relieved.. we have the watch..."

"Boatswain..Standby to pipe the side...Shipmate's going Ashore.."