Obituary published on Legacy.com by Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service - Charlotte on Mar. 28, 2025.
March 12, 2025
CHARLOTTE – Bryan Ivan Gamboa Alfaro passed away on Wednesday, March 12, 2025. He was born on April 28, 2003, to Jeronima Alfaro and Luis Ivan Gamboa.
Ivan graduated from East Mecklenburg High School in 2021. He started his lifelong dream of being a military service member by becoming a United States Marine in Parris Island on November 2, 2021. He was a devoted friend, brother, and son. His bright spark formed friendships wherever he went, and he never hesitated to help and comfort those who needed it. He served with honor and distinction until the time of his passing during which he was serving in the Marine Corps Security Force Regiment at the Naval Base in Kings Bay.
Ivan was raised in an immigrant family home where he learned to value both struggle and sacrifice. He understood from a young age what it meant to value and take care of your family. Ivan set high standards for himself and from a young age decided he wanted a job where he could serve with action and make an impact. Still, he had a playful side that always brightened the spaces he filled. His infectious laughter and mischievous spirit could make any load feel lighter and will be remembered forever in the hearts and minds of every life he touched.
Ivan was always an active child. He would play soccer, climb trees, wrestle, and do anything to keep himself moving-a trait he passed on to his younger brothers, but that his older sister never picked up. With her he shared a passion for music. They would sing in her room whenever they needed a break from work. He was involved in both the choir program and JROTC at East Mecklenburg and left an impact on his teachers and peers even after his graduation.
He grew up in the Adventist church where he chose to be baptized at a young age, and he continued to look to God in his day to day. We longingly await the day where we will be able to see him again by God's glory.
Ivan is survived by his parents, Jeronima and Luis Ivan; his brothers, Luis, Jesus, and Geovanny; his sister, Jennifer; his bonus mom; Joyce Bott; and many friends who will never forget him. We will love him always.
Funeral services will be held at 3:00 PM on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at Holy Comforter Episcopal Church, 2701 Park Road,
Charlotte, NC. Interment will be held at 1:30 PM on Monday, March 31, 2025, at Salisbury National Cemetery, 501 Statesville Blvd, Salisbury, NC.
Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave.,
Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.