Gilbert Valdez Jr. (81) passed away of a short illness on Tuesday, March 7, 2017. He was a lifelong resident of Madera, and attended Madera High School. Gilbert was a Foreman at Heublein/Canadaigua Wines for 36 years before retiring, and was a former Volunteer Fireman for the City of Madera, and a former member of YMI of St. Joachim’s Parish.

Gilbert was a loving Husband, Father and Grandpa. Gilbert was a friend to everyone. He enjoyed visiting with everyone and had a great sense of humor. He will be missed by all.

Gilbert was preceded in death by his son Matthew, parents, Gilbert and Helen Valdez, his brothers Tony and Lupe Valdez, and sister Bina Gonzales.

He is survived by his loving wife Mary of 58 years, son Mark, granddaughter Megan, sisters Mary-Ellen Ayala and her husband Sal, Esther Garcia and her husband Ray all of Madera, and Connie Patterson and her husband Richard and brother Peter Valdez all of Fresno, sisters-in-law Jennie Rodriguez, Anita Molina and her husband Tony all of Madera, Toni Hodson of Florida, and Dolores Overholtzer and her husband Harry of South Dakota. Godchildren Jeff Harris of Florida, Gus Avila Jr. and Angelica Avila of Madera, Jamie Verduzco of Santa Maria, and Monica Trevino of Madera. Also surviving are many nieces and nephews.

Recitation of the Rosary will be on Friday, March 17, 2017 at 10 AM at St. Joachim Church, 401 West 4th Street, Madera, Ca 93637 followed by a Memorial Mass at 11 AM also at St. Joachim Church.

Flowers may be sent to Jay Chapel. Remembrances may be made to The American Cancer Society, 2222 West Shaw Avenue, Suite 201, Fresno, CA 93711, or to the Holy Family Table of St. Joachim’s Parish, 401 West 5th Street, Madera, CA 93637.