Gilberto Marez Aranda

Gilbert Marez Aranda, age 88, died in Madera, California on Sunday February 28th, 2021 surrounded by his loved ones. He is preceded in death by his wife of 44 years Enriqueta Vitela Aranda, his sister Juanita, brother Seferino, brother Marcelo, sister Nena (Maria) & brother Jose (Pepe).

Born March 20, 1932 in Anapra, New Mexico, Gilbert was the fifth child of eight to Teofilo and Catalina Aranda. As a child he quickly learned the value of hard work, commitment and the importance of family from both parents. Being raised during the Great Depression he worked with his father selling or trading goods and taking care of the goats and sheep. These experiences followed Gilbert for the rest of his life. He married Enriqueta Vitela Aranda on April 8,1954. He was discharged from the U.S. Army where he served three years as a medic. Gilbert and Enriqueta quickly settled in Oakland, CA, with a child on the way. He began working for General Motors Corporation. In 1964, Gilbert and Enriqueta and their seven children moved to San Jose as GM moved to Fremont, CA. He retired from GM with over 30 years of service.

Gilbert was a man who taught his children and many others about his strong faith and belief in Jesus Christ. He was a member of the Church of God Seventh Day. Later he was sent to Pastor the Oakland 71’s Church of God Seventh Day for many years. His work was still not complete as he began his childcare career with his wife Enriqueta, helping with his grandchildren whom he loved. He enjoyed telling them stories and about the Bible.

Gilbert is survived by eight children, including sons Ruben, Estevan, Marcos, David and Mario and daughters Naomi, Susan and Abigail. In addition, he is survived by two sisters, 26 grandchildren, and 27 great-grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and finally, brothers and sisters in Christ.

Gilbert always made sure The Golden Rule was recited in his home, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

Another favorite quote was “It’s nice to be nice and let the people know you're nice.”

He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord. “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God in whom I trust.” – Psalm 91:1-2