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Gilbert Entao Obituary
Gilbert Entao, 35, of Sacramento, passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack on Feb. 26. Born in 1971, he grew up in Vallejo and went on to receive a Master's in English from CSU Sacramento. He taught both English and martial arts at CSUS and eventually opened his own Kung Fu studio.
In 2001 he rode his bike on a solo cross-country journey to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Gilbert had a love for the outdoors, and has been a Ranger at Folsom Lake for the past two and a half years.
Gilbert had a unique passion for life, an upbeat attitude, an infectious laugh, and was not afraid to take chances. His priority was always keeping his loved ones happy, and never hesitated to help those in need.
Gilbert is survived by his wife Kathy, son Joshua (age 3), daughter Kara (7 months), his parents, Wilfredo and Lucrecia, and his brother, Jayson.
There will be a viewing and memorial from noon to 8 p.m. on Friday, March 2 at the East Lawn Mortuary, Sacramento. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 3 at Holy Family Catholic Church and Calvary Cemetery in Sacramento.
A memorial website will be set up at www.gilbertentao.org for more information.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Gilbert Entao
Sponsored by Jayson Entao.
Sifu Gil, Simo Kathy- ECMAI days
March 20, 2020
Sifu Gil w/ Simo Kathy, Oahu, HI
March 19, 2020
Susan Shing
March 1, 2020
When I think of Sifu, I think of his commitment to morals and ethics. Life is oftentimes much easier when morals and ethics are put to the side. At Eagle Claw, I remember discussions amongst us students and how Sifu led by example. What morals and ethics do we live by and how do we treat other people. What is ok and what is not ok. In more recent years, as I have taken leadership roles and navigated difficult situations, I am beginning to understand the experiences and individuals that have shaped my commitment to safety and advocating for others. Thank you Sifu.
Charmaine Mamaril
February 26, 2020
Dearest Gil,
If only you could see the impact youve had on me! I mean Im living and surfing in Hawaii now, and I know somehow or some way you guided me here...one of your most favorite places in the world probably only second to being with the family. Seeing that picture of you biking through Waikiki holding onto your surfboard really put the biggest smile on my face.
I wish I could give you a big hug right now and let you know how much youve influenced me for the better. Im so grateful to have had you in my life. I love you and miss you!
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June 11, 2001 journal entry while solo biking across America USA
February 26, 2020
Van Dam
February 26, 2020
Sifu I think of you at times, the example you have shown me to be better. Continue to Rest In Peace.
Karm
February 26, 2020
Gil, even years later you are a topic if conversation at our home-- always of how awesome you are. I think if every kid had an older cousin like you in their lives, the world would be a much better, much different place. We miss you a lot, Gil.
Chrystle
February 26, 2020
Gil, the realization that my daughter would never meet you really hurt. I still have so many great childhood memories of hanging out upstairs at Auntie Lucy's house, watching Kung Fu movies or anime; going camping during the summer; hanging out at Gil's Kung Fu studio, and my first LA roadtrip to the anime convention with the cousins. I remember watching the older cousins play D&D and looking at your bookshelves of sci-fi and fantasy books in awe. Thank you for always making time for our family and making an effort for our cousins to be together even with the age differences. You lived your life with such passion for everything and shared it with everyone, whether it was Kung Fu, your family, food, or World of Warcraft. Thank you for the memories. We're still missing you.
Haile Bucaneg
February 26, 2020
Still missing you. You will always be an inspiration to me and so many other people. Thank you for everything you've done for and shared with all of us.
Sibok/Guru Ted
February 26, 2020
It's really funny when your thinking of someone you new these past few days and all of a sudden people who are acquainted with you and that very person suddenly pops up. I find it interesting how life is full of surprises. The person I'm referring to is a good childhood friend, Sifu Gil Entao. We both lived on the same street on Glenview in the City of Vallejo. We also studied different martial arts under very well known Sifus (teachers). I've always respected him as a brother, martial artist and close friend. When Sifu Gil had passed away, it came as a shock and I found it hard to believe because he was young and in shape. Also he was just starting his life and new career as a father and law enforcement officer. I can't believe it's been over 12 years since his passing. As a life long student of the martial arts, I can say Sifu Gil was a top exponent of the martial arts. In true fashion as a warrior, he was able to apply those skills in the two years he was in law enforcement which gave him that real world experience of what works and what doesn't work. If Sifu Gil were still around today he would be able to pass on those experiences to his dedicated students and friends. We miss you brother.
Toshi, Baldwin & Sifu Gil tai chi Repulsing the Monkey - 2000
February 26, 2020
tai chi with Sifu Gil
February 26, 2020
Dan Ryan
February 26, 2020
I miss you Gil! I still have many fond memories of our time together at World Eagle Claw in Vallejo and of opening the school in Sacramento! Rest in Peace my friend until we see each other again.
Lion dancing State Fair 2000
February 26, 2020
Baldwin Chiu
February 26, 2020
Sifu Gil was more than my teacher. He was the older brother I never had. His legacy continues in my 6 yr old daughter as I train her. I even bought a red/black lion in order to remember Sifu. My daughter goes to a Chinese dual language immersion school and they asked me to help train their upper grade lion dancers. As I went through movements, I thought of Sifu and the parents said that the lions looked so much better afterwards. When he taught me tai chi, it wasn't just the movements. It was life and it has kept me calm most of my life. I loved how he would allow me to "win" and when i started to get an advantage, he would show me my flaws. I was bigger than him, but it was like trying to move a boulder. We would talk about life and he would give me advise or encouragement the way a big brother would to reduce my stress. I was never intimidated by him, but was always afraid to disappoint him because I loved him and I know he loved me just as he did with all his students. We were always a part of his family. He made me a better person and I miss him dearly. I pray that I will see him again in eternity, but in the meantime, will treasure seeing him in Simo, Joshua, and Kara.
Rebecca Dam
February 26, 2020
Sifu... I first met you at CSUS as my Tai Chi instructor. Little did I know that you would come back into my life when I met my future husband, Van, at your Eagle Claw studio. You were such a positive light in our life and the only one who really taught me to slow down and focus on the little things. My family will always be touched by your continued legacy through your wife and amazing children. Love always, the Dam Family.
Robin Choi
February 25, 2020
Sifu, There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of how much you positively influenced my life. You inspired me to be the educator I am today. Your wisdom led me to dream big and overcome obstacles in my life. You will always have a place in my heart.
February 23, 2020
February 23, 2020
February 23, 2020
February 23, 2020
February 23, 2020
January 14, 2020
January 14, 2020
January 9, 2020
Your kids grew up amazing
January 4, 2020
January 4, 2020
PLEA Awards Nov. 14, 2007
January 4, 2020
Cleofe Tiuseco
February 22, 2015
Gil, I think of you everyday but especially this morning during mass. Just being at St. Catherine's Church brought back so many memories (your wedding, Max's Christening since you were his Ninong, etc., etc.) I can't believe you've been gone this long but the memories are still fresh in my heart. May you are resting in peace. Watch over us all. I miss you more.
February 21, 2015
I wish you are still here with us. I miss you more each day!
with the cousins......miss you, Gil!!!
Cleofe Tiuseco
June 30, 2012
June 23, 2012
I miss you more each day my son!
Ron Gali
April 3, 2009
Sifu Gil,
I wanted to thank you for making my 1st semester at Sacramento State memorable. You we're one of the 1st instructors in college that left a great impression on my outlook of life. Thank you. My prayers to the Entao family.
Geary Kwong
January 27, 2008
Sifu Gil,
It was an honory to learn from you and your adventures. You will be missed.
Geary Kwong
Jeremy Karnatz
June 21, 2007
Sifu, I want to say thank you, but the words to describe this don't even reach the limits of the compassion you've taught me. You will always be my role model. You will never be forgotten. I will honor you as you have honored me. I Thank you for changing me life.
Quan Le
March 30, 2007
Kathy, please accept my deepest condolences. Gil was a good man who I only have a chance to meet during Joshua's first birth date. He will be deeply missed. God Bless Gil's Soul.
jennifer calinog botello
March 28, 2007
Dear Gil, It has been so long since I had spoken to you, but the memories are warm and endearing, just as you are and your memory will continue to be. see you soon brother.
Marie Olarte-Silveira
March 23, 2007
sifu taught me more than kung fu forms and tai chi breathing...he taught me and showed me about how life should be lived...i have always taken a part of Sifu with me...no matter where I was. there is something amzazing about Sifu that lives so vibrantly in all of us. his stamp on my life is permanent. his family and life is a beautiful testament of how life is supposed to be lived...i miss him very much. he will live on with me and my family forever. thank you sifu for being in my life, thank you very much for being such an inspirational element in our world. always, marie
Linaya Edralin-Bunbury
March 22, 2007
Dear Entao Family:
Sifu was my teacher 3 semesters at CSUS. I always tried to shift around my class schedule so that I could take his class. He was an excellent teacher and taught me the value of discipline. I applied a lot of things he would say in our class in my own life. ("practice hard, perform hard...practice weak, perform weak"). I am so sorry for your loss. Please know that my prayers are with your family. Sifu was a great man and I was honored to have him as a teacher.
Bryce Difuntorum
March 20, 2007
I learned so much from Sifu. Not only as a teacher, but as a friend. Sifu, you had both knowledge and experience in all facets of life. The greatest asset and what I will remember most is your compassion for everything around you.
Frances Quinzon
March 18, 2007
I think Gil was and is a hero. I don't think he would want such a title. He was a humble hero. Through Kathy, I met him at time when we were all together during the death of our mutual friend Prof. Steffi. Kathy told me Gil said it was an honor to be present during such a time in a person's life. I knew from that time that Gil was a very insightful and deep person. He had a very strong sense of family that went beyond his Filipino-ness. It was about family and humanity. For Kathy, Joshua, Kara and all the family and friends-we are left with a void of grief. But I know Gil's essence is very alive and still teaching, helping, loving, and peace will fill our void. Thank you Gil. Your time here was much too short. But how blessed are all those who were lucky enough to know you. From my heart--Fran
Folsom Lake 2005
March 14, 2007
Ranger Entao
March 14, 2007
Christmas 2006
March 14, 2007
Gil, Kara and Joshua 12/06
March 14, 2007
Maxwell Tiuseco
March 9, 2007
Gil, thanks for giving me those special memories that I will always treasure, thanks for bringing us to the movies, buying us cool things, especially my food stickers, and just being a great cousin, we love you and we'll ALWAYS miss you and I'll always treasure the memories we made..WE LOVE YOU!!!
Colorado, 8/5/01
March 7, 2007
Colorado, 8/5/01
March 7, 2007
Texas, 7/26/01
March 7, 2007
Alabama, 7/1/01
March 7, 2007
Florida, 6/23/01
March 7, 2007
Louisiana, 7/5/01
March 7, 2007
Gil w/Dela Rosa Family 9/2005
March 7, 2007
Graduation Day 10/04, Monterey, CA
March 7, 2007
Arden Fair Mall 12/06
March 7, 2007
Christmas 2006, Entao Family
March 7, 2007
Mikunis Sushi w/Cousins 12/27/06
March 7, 2007
Coffee Tasting in Kona, HI, 10/06
March 7, 2007
Mom, Gil, Josh, Jay, Dad Kona, HI, 10/06
March 7, 2007
Jayson, Dad, and Gil Kona, HI, 10/06
March 7, 2007
Dawn Baker
March 6, 2007
Sifu: You will always be a person that I will have much respect for. You were always kind, honest, and someone whom I admired. I thankyou for the time that I knew you. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Sherri Scarrott, EA
March 6, 2007
My heart is heavy with the sad news of your passing! I was SO looking forward to visiting during your tax appointment: seeing you again and getting to meet Kara. I can remember the struggles with the studio; your marriage; the joy of the birth of your son and becoming a ranger. Rest well, Gil, you have earned your place in heaven, but it wasn't suppose to be this soon! You will be missed.
Rosa Van
March 5, 2007
Gil you will be truly missed by many. You have been such an inspiration to all---living life to its absolute fullest. Your life and legacy will continue to live on. I thank you showing all of us to live with no bounds and chain.Kathy you are such a strong person. I love you dearly and am here for you always.
La Dona Hein
March 5, 2007
My dear Entao family,
Each of you have blessed my life. What a joy to see you and talk to you as you brought Joshua to school. Your love of family permeated your presence. I am deeply honored and humbled to know you.I will miss Gil's warm smile and his positive comments about his family. If I could have adopted another son, Gil would have been my choice. My heartfelt prayers will be with you. I love you all! May God bestow His continued love and blessings upon you.
John Juco-Deltoro
March 5, 2007
Kathy and Gill, Ever since i met you two when i was little you always had the happiest smiles on your faces 24-7. There was never a dull moment... just wanted to say that the Juco and Deltoro families are always here with arms open.
Ronald Juco
March 5, 2007
Losing you was like losing my own brother. But knowing the type of person you were, inspires me to continue to live on in a positive manner and to never settle for less in my goals. I will always remember the family gatherings with you and all the times we have spent together. Your family is my family and I will do my very best to keep an eye on them and to be there in their time of need. I will miss your company, your laugh, seeing you pass by the house in the mornings...but most of all, your uplifting and humourous attitude that was always contagious whenever you were around. I will keep your spirit in my mind and close to my heart.
Aklil Bekele
March 5, 2007
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Dorothy Love
March 4, 2007
With respect and admiration!
Sifu Gil, fulfilling my child hood dream to be a Lion Dancer. Your spirit will be in every future move I make under that lion.
Baldwin Chiu
March 4, 2007
SIfu Gil. What an honor it was to train with you from the beginning. You taught me that being a good martial artist was to fight well, but to be a great martial artist, you must be able to bring peace. You are amonst the greatest. Thank you for loving & treating me as your own family. I am better because of you. Thank you for believing in my dreams & goals. Thank you for always being proud of me. I love you and will make sure your spirit lives on in me and in all those I teach.
karm m
March 4, 2007
Gil, we miss you lots... It isn't the same without you. Say hi to Grandpa. Hopefully we'll all be together someday in the future.
Wil Jorae
March 3, 2007
Gil was a fantastic man. I had the privilege to train under Gil about 12 years ago at Sac State, though we lost touch after I graduated. His positive attitude, encouragement of others to be their best, and his humble nature was and will continue to be an inspiration to the many people's lives he touched. My heart goes out to his wife Kathy, his two children Joshua and Kara, and his whole family.
Charles Celeste
March 3, 2007
Gil, I don't believe that I've ever met someone that's a more humble and giving person. Your presence was inviting and you made people feel at home. Even after years of non-contact, when I visited your school you welcomed me not as a friend, but as a long lost brother. Very open hearted and warm. Thank you for being that friend whom I know that whenever we would meet it would be like there never was a gap between us. I will always cherish the memories we had as kids and in our adult life. Bro, you are surely missed. My prayers to the entire Entao family, especially Kathy and the kids. I wish I were there, but know that my prayers are reaching out to you all. Gil, we'll meet again. Miss ya brah.
billy taylor
March 3, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort. Gil was my instructor about 8 years ago for Tai Chi and Shaolin martial arts at sac state. he was a great teacher (sifu) and pushed us to work hard.
Ryann Gill
March 2, 2007
Gil was one of the most intelligent, talented, and kind people I've ever met. You will be missed dearly.
Adrian Moses
March 2, 2007
Gil will always remind me how to be a friend, and a compasionate gentleman.
Rick Ward
March 2, 2007
Gil, it was a deep honor and privilege to have worked with you. I want you to know that all the members of the Auburn/Newcastle CHP Office are deeply sadden of your passing. We wish there was something we could say or do to make things easier for your family, friends, and coworkers during this time of sorrow. Please know you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Darci Kincanon
March 2, 2007
Kathy, Kids and Family,
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Although I did not know Gilbert, Kathy you have become a very important person to me. Always remember the good times and love your kids and when you look into their eyes you will always see their daddy and that in itself will keep his spirit alive. I am here if you need anything....
sandra & jessica
March 2, 2007
Gil, you were always great in keeping people inspired to never give up. i was always impressed of how you biked nearly everywhere and hearing about your adventures.
you will NEVER be forgotten and forever grateful for being a part of your life...i do miss those kung fu workouts!
you and your family will always be in my prayers.
Gina Fernando
March 2, 2007
Gil, it's been about 10 years since we last made contact, but the memories from St. Vincent's & St. Pat's will always be as fresh and enjoyable as the day they were made. I will always remember you as my "Chemistry partner" and a contributing writer to the Bard...i am sure my Chemistry grade is a lot higher thanks to you! My condolences to your wife, children, parents and brother in this time of sorrow and grief..you have lost a very warm-hearted, witty and loving individual.
Ranger Gary Brennan
March 2, 2007
Gil, I only had the chance to know you for six months in the State Park Ranger Academy. I got to know a carring, personal man who loved life to the fullest and would help out anyone in need. God must have the need for your tallents in heaven. Rest peacefully brother!
Cleofe Tiuseco
March 2, 2007
Gil, YOU will always be in our hearts. Thank you for being around when Vinnie and Max were growing up. You will always be their hero. Thank you for all the good times (camping, skiing, biking, Disneyland trips, picnics, cruise, movies, shows, sushi, etc.).
We will never forget.
We love you and are terribly missing you!!!
Charmaine Mamaril
March 2, 2007
Words can't even come to express how much I love you and will miss you Gil. You have always been an inspiration to me as you lived your life whole-heartedly, with good humor,and with great passion. Your memory will always live on through all of us.
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