I worked with Gil at Armored. He was always a great friend and companion!  I hope His family knows he was a real Man!  Loved his Porsche!

So sad to hear about Gilbert’s passing. He was so supportive when I opened my new clinic with Leah in Encinitas. I am grateful that we connected. I loved his stories, charming personality and authenticity. 
 Love and light,
Moira

I met Gil many years ago surfing at Tourmaline Canyon and La Jolla Shores. As I got to know Gil I discovered we had many of the same interests and passions; surfing, fast cars, and golf.  During that period of time my daughter developed an interest in surfing. Gil helped to teach her demonstrating extreme patience and calmness. This resulted in her becoming very good at the sport. Throughout the years Gil was always ready lend a hand when I needed help on some project. He will be greatly missed.

Sending my heartfelt condolences.  Gil  was a warm and considerate 
soul.  He will always be remembered with great love.
Love from Laura, Elizabeth and Michael Escutia

As all of us know, Gil was just the kindest, sweetest guy you would ever hope to have as a friend.   I met him through my sister, Loretta Pierce who was blessed to be his neighbor for more than 40 years. Gil was "always there" to help in any way he could and that was comforting to know especially when my sister suffered the devastating loss of her husband. Gil was like a "security blanket" because if something broke, she knew she could always ask him for help. 

I have such fond memories of Gil tinkering with his latest vintage car   or sharing where he found his "latest bargain".  He was amazing, kind-hearted, fun to be around and always so thoughtful.  Most of all, I will remember him as the devoted husband and father that he was! I thought how great it would be if every child could have memories of a dad like that. I understand the tragedy in losing someone so dear but I know Suzette and Leah will hold tight to those memories because it was a life well lived. It was my privilege to know Gil and his warm heart and induring kindness will be long remembered and appreciated by me.  He had a great family who enjoyed spending time together and I will treasure the special times I shared with them.  I share in their sadness and their loss and I offer my deepest, most sincere condolences.

Gil and Keith became friends while working at General Dynamics long before wives came along!  Since then we have shared many backyard barbecues, car shows, houseboat trips, a vacay to Italy, fireworks in San Diego, with Gil and Suzette.   He will always have a special place in our hearts!   Many prayers to a wonderful woman, Suzette,  and their precious Leah!  Gil is now in God's glory!

Gil Petzen was our neighbor for over five decades, and he was a blessing in every way. He filled the room with warmth, humor, and joy. He was such a hard worker and would drop everything to help others.  We lived across the street from Gil and Suzette and it is impossible to express all of the joys and sorrows that we shared. He was there for you 1000%, no matter what was needed. We will forever hold him in our heart, and we send our sincerest condolences to his  family, whom he adored. Gil was a family man and the best friend that you could ever hope for. His love of country, God, his family and friends, enriched all of our lives. RIP dear Gil. Sincerely, Loretta and Family

Gil is such a dear friend of ours. He worked with my husband for 35 years, and they’ve shared a beautiful, long-lasting friendship. I’m also so happy to have become friends with Suzzete!Love you

Gil will be missed and loved by many. He's having  a blast surfing those BIG Waves he always dreamed of in crystal blue, bath warm waters, with bright sun-rays beaming down. Never tiring of his passion riding on array of long and short boards.

I was a 12 year old kid when Gil moved to post rd. He was always super nice and laid back! So about 50 years, WOW! Talking surf and cars and goodwill sales all the time..He will forever be a post roader! I already miss him. Suzzette and leah are always in our prayers. A great wife and daughter He was always very proud of. RIP GILBERT......

OBITUARY

Gilbert LeRoy Petzen

May 7, 1943 – April 20, 2025

Miramar Memorial Services

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