Gilbert Portillo Orozco

On March 26th, 2018 Gilbert joined the Lord with his loving family at his side at Kaiser in Fremont, CA. Survived by his wife of 67 years Paula Galvan Orozco; sons: Larry, James & his wife Debbie, and Jeff & his wife Susie; grandchildren: Jennifer (Amit), Anthony, Danielle, Katie, Jeffrey Jr., Lauren, Thomas, and Matthew; and great grandson Angel Jr. Also survived by his brother Ernie, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Preceded in death by his son Gilbert D. Orozco on January 9th, 2018. Gilbert was born on October 19th, 1930 in Carpinteria, CA to Jose J. Portillo and Margarita Orozco. At an early age Gilbert moved with relatives to Decoto, CA. In his youth, he excelled in football (his nickname was “Snags”), basketball, and track. In 1949 he graduated from Washington Union High School in Centerville, CA. After high school he went on to play semi-pro football with the Hayward Raiders. He worked for Alameda County Public Works Dept. for 34 years and retired as a traffic painter supervisor. Gilbert was a little league coach and adult sports coach to many teams over the years, and he was the co-founder of the Union City Athletic Club. Gilbert’s hobbies included leather crafts, and beautification projects at his home. He enjoyed bus trips with Paula to Reno, Tahoe, Laughlin, and Las Vegas. He also enjoyed family vacations to Pinecrest, Yosemite, Nor Cal, So Cal, and to his dad’s ranch. He was fond of big band music and country music. He was keen on reading almost every day whether it was the newspaper, magazines, or novels, especially when the topic pertained to California history. Gilbert loved family gatherings such as birthdays, graduations, reunions, and the holidays. He also loved sports and was THE #1 fan for all of his sons and grandchildren. He relished in their sporting events, extracurricular activities, and special life events. The sharing of real life stories with his family was a very special gift of his that we all will hold dear to our hearts forever! Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 4th, from 5-8pm with a Vigil at 6:30pm at Fremont Memorial Chapel, 3723 Peralta Blvd., Fremont, CA 94536. A final viewing will be held on Thursday, April 5th at 12:30pm and a Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 1pm, all at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, 703 C St., Union City, CA 94587. Burial will follow at Chapel of the Chimes Memorial Park in Hayward, CA 94540.

Gilbert Portillo Orozco

October 19, 1930 - March 26, 2018