William "Willie" Gatbonton, Sr. Gatbonton

William Vino Gatbonton was a free spirit whose bright presence brought joy to all those who were around him. Although spontaneous in nature, he possessed a tough-minded, “take charge” attitude. William always sought out the scene of where the action was. Sociable, analytical and pleasant, William was an individual who enjoyed life.

William was born in Candaba, Pampanga Philippines to his parents, Pedro M. Gatbonton and Francisca Vino. At an early age, after losing his father, William was raised by his mother in Manila, Philippines. Despite having to work from a young age on, he remained optimistic in his outlook on life. Armed with a great wit, William was raised to be accepting of others and to implement a strong personal work ethic. He worked hard and strived every day to provide a better life for not only himself, but for his six brothers and three sisters.

William was outgoing and animated. He enjoyed singing, dancing, and making people laugh. He also enjoyed playing billiards and basketball, and was the self-proclaimed Michael Jordan of his time.

Known to others as a focused, open-minded and driven individual, William was able to utilize these qualities not only to succeed in high school, but in life in general. While attending Ramon Magsaysay, his favorite high school class was math, which lead him to pursue his degree in Accounting from PCC University. During this time, he was a member of the college ROTC.

Very much like a kid himself, William identified with the inquisitive and creative side of his son’s personality. He was able to direct his energy and spontaneity towards helping his son, Wesley, acquire added stubbornness, determination, and common sense skills.

William was a flexible worker who was able to draw the best from others around him. Those who worked with him would say that there was never a dull moment when William was around. He loved interacting and meeting new people. He encountered many new faces over the past 28 years while working as a 21 Dealer, but all those who sat at his table knew he was much more than just a dealer as he left them with a lasting experience.

Because he liked to take risks, William was a perfect match for athletics. He was enthusiastic and confident about these activities. In high school and college, William played basketball. Recreationally he also enjoyed playing billiards. William was a sports fan and enjoyed watching basketball and football whenever he got the opportunity.

William retired in 2010 and could finally relax and enjoy his life, knowing he had secured a better future for his son so that he would never have to go through the struggles that he endured during his lifetime. During his retirement, he then had the time to pursue a new goal, winning poker tournaments, and eventually holding a seat in the World Series of Poker.

William passed away on August 23, 2010 at Spring Valley Hospital from complications from a stroke he suffered in June 2010. Although he fought hard for those two months, in the end it was just his time. He is survived by his son, Wesley Gatbonton. Services were held at Palm Mortuary, Eastern Chapel. William was laid to rest in Palm Mortuary Cemetery in Las Vegas, Nevada.

William was the kind of person who could win others over easily. He was always able to provide his friends and acquaintances with a seemingly endless supply of anecdotes, jokes and stories. If William could leave everyone with a piece of advice, it would be to enjoy life. He was a free spirit who could brighten up any room with his presence. This is how everyone will remember William Vino Gatbonton.

Arrangements under the direction of Palm Green Valley Funeral Home, Las Vegas, NV.