Godofredo C De Guzman Jr.

Godofredo C. De Guzman, Jr., fondly known as Gilbert, was a beacon of light to those who had the privilege of knowing him. Born on July 22, 1957, in Manila, Philippines, he embraced life with a heart full of love and a mind rich with thoughtfulness and analytical prowess. On September 1, 2023, he peacefully passed away in Bakersfield, California, following a stroke, leaving a void in the hearts of many. Gilbert was a proud alumnus of San Beda High School, where he started his academic journey that later led him to college, where he pursued his passion for optometry. His life was a testament to the power of education, and he constantly encouraged his kids and grandkids to broaden their horizons through learning. Family was the cornerstone of Gilbert's life. He was a loving father to his four children, Angelica Rotap, Ann Marie De Guzman, Jeanette Boule, and his youngest, Mark Anthony De Guzman. He was an adored grandfather to Jevin Anthony Rotap, Troy Williams Olds, Austin Edward Olds, Tiberius Charland, and Joseph Paul Charland. His love for his family knew no bounds, and it is a love that will continue to thrive in their hearts. Gilbert was a social butterfly who found joy in the company of others. His laughter was contagious, his conversations insightful, and his love for his family was enormous. He had a passion for singing, a hobby that he used not just to entertain, but to inspire and uplift those around him. His melodious voice will forever echo in the hearts of those who had the pleasure of hearing him sing. Isaiah 41:10, "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Gilbert's love for the Lord embodied this quote throughout his life. His love, passion and his unwavering faith was endless and was undeniable. Gilbert's journey on earth may have ended, but his spirit lives on in the lives he has touched. His memory will continue to inspire, his life will continue to motivate, and his love will continue to nurture. Like a pebble thrown into a pond, his influence has created ripples that will continue to spread, impacting lives for generations to come. In the face of this loss, we find solace in the legacy Gilbert leaves behind. He was not just a man who lived; he was a man who loved and a man of faith. His life was a testament to the power of love, compassion and the strength of determination. As we remember Gilbert, let us not dwell on his departure but celebrate his life, and his memory we will forever treasure. Let us honor his memory by living our lives with the same passion, love, and thoughtfulness that he did. And as we navigate through our own journeys, let us remember this quote by Maya Angelou, "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Gilbert made us all feel cherished, love and made us feel important; that is a feeling we will hold onto forever. Godofredo C. De Guzman, Jr., you have left us physically, but your spirit, your love, and your legacy will forever be a part of us. Thank you for the love, the laughter, the music to our ears and the lessons. You will be dearly missed, but never forgotten.