He graduated from Jefferson high school Tampa. He joined the navy for 8 years after graduating and worked in interior communications. His first command was on the USS Sea Cat. In June 1968, he moved back to Tampa and started working for Honeywell and then Connolly refrigeration. In 1970 he purchased his father’s business Food Machinery Exchange/Menendez AC and was still going into the office till this day. Gilbert loved deep sea fishing and was an avid fisherman and would take out his boat as much as possible in the early years and catch tons of grouper and snapper. He also was a brilliant chess player and would even beat the computers when they came out years ago. He was still playing chess every morning to this day. He was a great problem solver and very intelligent. He loved taking road trips with us kids, beaches, camping etc.. He was a hard working devoted husband, father and friend. Gilbert was always there for his family and never let them down.
He was preceded in death by his parents Castro and Pepita Menendez; son, Mark Menendez.
Gilbert is survived by his wife of 60 years, Darlene; children, Gilbert J. Menendez, Karen Marie (Steve) White, Brian J. Menendez; grandson, Matthew Harris.
A graveside service will be held privately at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Salesian Sisters, 655 Belmont Ave, Haledon, NJ 07508.
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