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Gilbert Francis "Gil" Deneau

Gilbert Deneau Obituary

Sacramento, CA

Gilbert "Gil" Francis Deneau

February 5, 1947 - June 13, 2008

Gilbert "Gil" Francis Deneau

was born of French-Canadian descent in Detroit, MI. Memorial

services were held June 21, 2008.

Survived by his wife, 9 children, 28 grandkids, 2 great grandkids and many friends, co-workers, and clients. Gil was a local area Accountant for 18 years. On April 19, 2008 he married his soul-mate. Sharing a love for the Lord, they had 8 blessed weeks. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Record on Jul. 13, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Gilbert Deneau

84 Entries

John and Lainey

August 9, 2021

Miss you every day dear brother in Christ.

Mrs. Linda Faye Deneau

August 12, 2008

Read at Gil's Memorial Service:

My Husband "Gil"

My husband, Gil, suffered a sudden, massive heart attack on Wednesday, June 11th, at 6:30 PM on our way to Bible Study. He never regained consciousness. The sweetheart of my life, my dream-come-true, my happily-ever-after, my last-dance, was taken home very peacefully by angels on Friday, June 13th, to be with his personal savior, Jesus Christ.

It gives me great peace to know this to be true, because he was a devoted Christian man who put the Lord as his first priority and at the center of our marriage. We only had 11 months together, but I'm just so very, very happy that I was his Bride and the recipient of his unconditional love. He loved me even when I was grumpy and even in the mornings when my hair was messy and I know I looked like a chipmunk!

I will forever have the memories of our first meeting, our biblical courtship, a fairytale wedding, romantic honeymoon to the coast, extended honeymoon to the Midwest to meet each other's families, spend a night at the GRAND HOTEL on Mackinac Island, Michigan, and the fun we were having putting furniture together and setting up our household. Most of all, I will remember how we always made each other laugh. We were truly soul mates. Our interests and our faith were so compatible it was as if we had known each other forever. Everyday we said 'I love you', we kissed each other often, and we held hands. I left him love notes, he brought me flowers, and we wrote each other poems. We were keeping the romance alive ... we shared a great respect and love for one another. We also encouraged one another in our dreams and interests.

Gil was an early riser and of course, I am not ... but it worked out very well for us ... we have a little morning ritual ... He would rise and have his alone time with the Lord every morning while I slept. When he would hear me stir, here he came with a nice, hot cup of coffee for me! Sometimes, I'd be in the bathroom and when I came out, there would be that morning coffee waiting for me. I'd get back in bed, sit up and enjoy that first sip! In just a few minutes he'd come back in with that fantastic, beautiful smile from ear-to-ear to greet me with "Good morning, Honey ... how are you doing today?" Sometimes, I'd say "I don't know yet!" Then we'd both laugh out loud. He'd sit next to me on the bed while we discussed our agenda for that day. Once or twice we just decided NOT to do anything but hang-out in our PJs all day and have a "do nothing" day except enjoy each other, eat what we wanted, and watch our favorite Sci-Fi DVDs that day ...

Another ritual in the evening was for us to sit up in bed and watch a little bit of his Star Trek DVDs while holding hands ... then we'd say "I love you, honey ... sweet dreams" ... and then go to sleep holding hands or cuddling.

My night times and mornings are the hardest for me ... there are no words to describe the depth of my pain ... none.

We both shared so many of the same interests that we kept surprising each other as each day of our marriage we learned more and more about each other. We both carried little memo pads and wrote down things we wanted to remember to do. We both enjoyed writing and had many writing project ideas on a list so when we had spare time we could write. I plan to continue Gil's desire to one day publish his short stories ... as a tribute to him.

He was always concerned that there were so many hungry children in the world and was a faithful supporter of 'Compassion International' - releasing children from poverty in Jesus' name. We both shared a passion for the homeless, as well, and did what we could to help feed them, provide blankets and toiletries in the winter months, and sometimes even bought them shoes and socks. We had the kids and grandkids join us when we visited the homeless. They helped us hand out food and watched as we talked with these people and let them know that they were still special in God's eyes and that He loved them and so did we. It was an amazing ministry effort that we shared. He would always get teary eyed at the horrible environment these people lived in and it hit us especially hard last winter when we found out that 5 of these people actually froze to death. His heart went out to them and we continued to encourage them and visit them.

I thank the Lord for surprising me with such a wonderful, loving husband so late in life. He taught me what a true, Christian husband is supposed to be like. I will always and forever have Gil's memory in my heart, mind, and soul. It is with me as the Bible says in Song of Solomon 3:4 "I found the one my heart loves."

On April 19th, just 2 months ago, I became Mrs. Gilbert Deneau and I couldn't be more proud to carry his name. We both thought of each other as very precious and we were very protective of one another. We had made so many plans for our future and thought we'd have years together, but it wasn't in God's plan for us. I'm honored I got to know this wonderful man. He was the grandest of gentlemen and I loved him more than life itself. We did a lot of living in the 11 months we had with each other and I will forever miss him. I know in my heart that it's ok to be both sad and happy ... sad he was taken from all of us so soon, but happy that he's in heaven with the Lord right now.

He became a great 'father' example for my children and 'Grandpa Gil' to my grandchildren. He was cherished by every one of them and he loved all of them right back. And I have gained additional family members that I know will bring me great joy ... his 5 children and their families. I cherish this gift because they are part of him and now part of me. I thank the Lord for blessing me with such a HUGE, fantastic, loving family ... I'm truly a very blessed woman.

I know my sweetheart is with the Lord and I'm sure he has his singing voice back and is probably dancing with joy to be free of pain and spending time with the ONE he put first in his life!

I expect when I get up there that he will be waiting at the gates and will whisk me off my feet and carry me over the threshold! (He's my Knight and I'm his Lady Linda, you know!)

I look forward to that time ... when the Lord Jesus Christ calls me home. But while I'm here, I have much work to do and I will continue to share God's Word with those I encounter and care for. I thank the Lord for the hope only HE can give us and I thank HIM for loving each one of us unconditionally ... no matter what mistakes we make in our lives!

My goal in life is the same as Gil's ... we both wanted to one day hear the Lord greet us with "Well done, good and faithful servant!" I'm sure Gil was greeted this way when he entered heaven's gates and came face-to-face with his heavenly Father! What an awesome dream come true for him.

I'm not sure why Gil had to go so soon after we married, but I do know that sometimes, God works in mysterious ways and that HE is in control. In Romans 8:28, the Bible promises "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."

I'm surrounded by loved ones and I know if I need anything at all that I could call on any one of you ... I thank you for that and will let you know if I need your help. I promise! But, please remember that I do need some alone time as well.

Thank you ... each one of you ... for being here today ... your presence shows just how many lives my loving husband touched ... his dedication to his family and unconditional love will be remembered forever.

Gil, honey ... I will ALWAYS love you!

Mike and Shelley Windham

August 12, 2008

Read at Gil's Memorial Service:

This note is written with great sadness and great joy. The news of Gil's return home came quite as a shock. Gil has been a part of our family for many years. He will be missed.

We first met Gil at the church we were attending 14 years ago. He was a very strong man of God and always took on our family as a sort of prayer burden. I was very relieved to know he was praying for us. I will miss his prayers here on earth, but I am delighted to think that now Gil is interceding directly with Jesus face-to-face for us.

His charm and wit will truly be missed. His child-like grin that went from ear-to-ear and lit up his whole face will always be remembered. I will never forget that grin when he told us about his new 'friend' Linda. We were so blessed by their commitment to purity in their relationship. It was a treat to see them treasure their first kiss right in front of us all.

We were so grateful for the last year of Gil's life. Linda brought joy and passion to his life. I think God works in mysterious ways sometimes and I am not sure why he went so soon, but I know that God works all things for good to those that love Him. I know that I have never seen him more happy as in the last 10 months. I am sure that was a gift from God.

We would like to send our love to Linda as she travels through this next journey in her life. Our prayers will be with you. This time of grief will pass and only then will you be able to see how our precious Savior has held you through it all.

We would also like to send our love to his family. Many of you have been in our lives for years. We know how this must be a shock to you all. I know that Gil would want all of you to rejoice at his arrival home and not to suffer. I know he loved all of you and that you were the well spring of his life. He was very proud of his children and he let us know each time we had occasion to visit. I know he loved his grandchildren very much and felt honored to be their Grandfather.

We are left very sad for the loss of a dear friend, but somehow feel great joy knowing that he is face-to-face with the Lord. The Bible reminds us that our lives are like a flower that quickly fades away ... so we will all soon enough be face-to-face with our Lord. What a reunion that will be!

In His Love ...

Jason Deneau

August 11, 2008

Read at Gil's Memorial Service:

My name is Jason Gilbert Deneau. Son of Gilbert Francis Deneau. The only son that was born with his last name.

As I grew up as a child, I was a mischievious boy. Ready and quite able to test the patience of my dad. As I was receiving my punishment with the famous line that I'm sure we've all heard: "Boy, this is going to hurt me a lot more than it's going to hurt you." After I received my well-deserved punishment and wiped away my tears, I would look up and my dad would ask me: "Well, what did you learn?" At the time I would think ... "this is a trick question", so I'd better get the right answer or more wrath of dad would come flying my way. So I would give the general kid answer and say: "I'm sorry." Then he would kneel down and tell me he loved me and gave me a big hug. At the time I would think "I sure wish he wouldn't love me so much" because my rear still hurts.

As I grew up, I always wondered why my dad asked me after each lickin, "Well, Jason, what did you learn?" So one day I asked him about it. He said: "Look son, I can only protect you for so long. When you make a mistake against God, His punishments are a lot harder than mine. I don't want you to make the same mistakes I did growing up. We always want the best for our children. We try to teach them, even when it hurts us."

Today, I honor my father and share some of his teachings and my personal thoughts. My dad was a great singer. One of his favorite places was the shower at our home in San Jose. He used to sing and sing and sing, until he would swallow a little water, then he would cough and cough and cough. My sister, Darcy, and I would laugh and laugh. He would come out wearing his robe, look at us and say "What?" "Nothing dad. It was a good song until you hit that high note." He would smile, shake his head and walk away.

When he would sing in the shower and we had to go to the bathroom, we would turn on the hot water in the kitchen. He would inevitably get shot with cold water and scream like a little girl. A Baritone singer just became a Soprano instantly!

My dad was a great thinker. One of our favorite games was to test dad's mind. So we would throw math problems at him. "Hey, dad, what is 692 + 824?" He would think in his head for a brief moment and say 1,516 and be so proud of his answer.

He was a great solver of many problems. Finances ... he would teach me how to make a budget. Relationships ... he would teach me to take my time. Spititual, he would teach me how to read the Bible, have faith and pray. Fishing ... he taught me the basics: hooks, line, sinkers, and a whole lot of patience!

As I matured later on in life, we shared many of the same interests: Politics, financial goals, computers, and genealogy. One day, we were sitting and sharing our family history together. He said, "You know, Jason, I never met my father ... so raising you and Darcy, I had to kind-of guess at it." So me, being the always-curious one, did a little research. I called my dad a few days later with my results. "Dad, my grandpa was a great man. He was in World War 2, survived the War and came home with 13 medals and 8 of them were Bronze Stars. The he got bored, went to Korea, survived and got 3 more medals." There was a brief silence on the phone on my dad's end and then he piped up and said: "I taught my dad everything he knows." I was laughing so hard on the phone that I accidently hung up on him.

As I sit writing this list of memories of my dad, the things he taught me, the things we shared, I am reminded that he had honor, compassion and faith. A faith in God that no man could break. He stood by his convictions, eager to share what he was taught by God. Dad always forgave people and especially me for wrong doings.

In closing, I wish to say ... I am proud to have the name Deneau. There is honor in my name. As both of my Fathers in heaven are waiting for all of us and as the new Monarch of the Deneau Family, I wish to say ... I am Jason Gilbert Deneau, son of Gilbert Francis Deneau and I will teach you!

Kim Deneau

August 11, 2008

Read at Gil's Memorial Service:

Dancing With Dad

I stand here today to honor a man I have known
This man was named Gil and through him I've grown.

But I guess it would be best to start at the beginning
Because to those who don't know me, it might be confusing.

I first came to know Gil, under strange circumstances
I put up my guard and I wasn't taking any chances.

I was scared to get to know this new man in my life
Afterall, he wasn't MY dad, I was just his son's wife.

The reason I feared getting to know this new dad
Was because I had just lost my own and he was in God's hands.

But little did I realize that we had common ground
He also suffered a loss and in this we found
A bond that was shared
On a subject we cared
And through this I had let my guard down.

I still cautiously approached this new man in my life
I had just lost my dad and he just lost his wife.

There was one other link and that link is through Jason
For Gil he's a son and for me, he's my husband.

It was through this tough time that we both helped each other
We talked and we shared and we healed one another.

Gil had a hard time, you know, dealing with change
He's really quite regimented and all this was strange.

He needed a push, like a small bird from it's nest
And at pushing I'm great, you might say I'm best.

I remember one time, I forced him to go dancing
He tried to put up a fight, but I didn't listen.
We danced and we danced, 'til our skin it did glisten.
I worked him out hard, I believe he took 3 nitroglycerin.

I pushed him again and again did I push
Poor little guy, hardly stood a fair chance.

It finally happened, that a chance he did take
A new chance at love, in his heart did it wake.

I was so darn proud of him, leaving his little safe place
But he took a huge chance, and I had to give him space.

I had pushed and I pushed and I pushed once again
And the chance that he took, was to finally let love in.

He met lovely Linda and in her he found
What he had been missing and my job was now done.

For me, he gave me what I really craved
A new father figure, I was finally saved.

Gil told me the truth, although sometimes it hurt
A true man of God, no advice did he skirt.

For me, Gil had always led by example
Like how he waited for Linda and never a kiss did he sample.
Now that had to be hard for this man not to fall
Cause we have to remember, he was French afterall.

He showed me how to be brave and how to be strong
To follow the dreams for which I have longed.

He showed me what it meant to be a good wife
To sometimes shut up and to just enjoy life.

What he gave me the most is what we get from above
A true man of God, he gave me unconditional love.
It was instant and fast, I still can't understand
How he wiggled his way in, this most wonderful man.

He never did judge me or ever put me down
He only lifted me up 10 feet from the ground.

There's one more gift he gave me, this incredible man
He created his son Jason for which I am glad.
He raised his boy right and he raised his boy proud
A much better role model could never be found.

I found Gil so sweet, so cute and so funny
I am so lucy to say he's just like my honey.
Two peas in a pod, I guess you might say
It all comes from raising, your kids the right way.

So learn from this man and the example he set
A more noble human being, I rarely have met.

There's another lesson here, to learn from this day
And not miss a chance, to let the chips lay.
And that is to tell everyone just how special they are
How much they are loved, whether they're near or they're far.

So, pick up that phone, leave a note, write a letter
Hug the person right next to you; the opportunity couldn't be better.

Because God calls us home and sometimes it's fast
And you're right here and right now can soon be your last.

I thought hard today ...

"Did I ever tell you Dad, how my love for you grew?
The chance is now passed; I can only hope that you knew."

So don't be afraid to say the words in your heart
Forgive those who have wronged and to make a fresh start.

You know ...

"I used to struggle with such a simple word ... Dad ...
But I'm greater for knowing you and for knowing you I'm glad.
For even though I have lost, yet one more father,
In my heart you will stay, right next to the other.

I won't say goodbye ... so I'll just say "ta-ta" for now,
Dad we've got one more date, to go dance in the clouds."

Michele Jackson

August 11, 2008

Read at Gil's Memorial Service:

Life is Full of Surprises

She was lonely yet she remained faithful to the Lord. She did everything right. The Lord blessed her with a Knight in Shining Armor. They became a team and then they became one. The Lord blessed them with the perfect love.

His heart was full of love and happiness, but his body was tired. The Lord decided to take him and make him Lead of His choir. As we sit and wonder "why?", the Lord says "He was not alone. He had a loving wife and family to call his own. She will be okay now and she will be strong. Times will be tough, but her love will go on. do not cry for him for he is whole again. His body is perfect and his love is forever. Remember him and the good times. You will see him again in heaven."

Vickie & Ed Cordell

August 11, 2008

We moved next door to the Deneau family 18 years ago in Stockton. Little did we know at the time, that a "friendship for life" was forming. Through the years we've laughed and cried, prayed and praised and helped each other out as neighbors and friends whenever there was something needed by either one of us. It was comfortable and reassuring.

I think I was the biggest "garage sale buyer" Gil has ever known! Oh, they always had so much treasure (really good stuff) that I just couldn't live without. Gil would get that "worried half smile" look on his face when he'd see me coming with my boxes to fill. At first he thanked Ed for "helping" clear out his stuff! After a couple years of that, Gil wanted to be sure Ed was still his friend after I got done "shopping"! All in fun - lots of laughs.

I miss Gil and his warm, beautiful smile that lit up his whole face. I miss his words of wisdom, compassion and faith that were so obvious in everything he did and said. Whether it was in person or by email, there was always something meaningful (and often humorous) to learn and share.

Linda, thank you for sharing so many special stories and pictures of your life with Gil. They brought many smiles. Many thoughts and prayers are with You and Your's & Gil's blended Families - near and far. The cherished memories that we all have as family members and friends will last a lifetime . . . until we meet again . . . .

julie & kathleen meyers

August 10, 2008

gil you will trully be missed even that we have known gil for a short time both kathleen and i felt we have known him for years we will always treasure and hold close to our hearts the time we had at the sofa bowling night when kathleen was getting a bowling lesson from gil intill we meet again gil linda we love you lots!!!!!!

John Trunkey

August 6, 2008

Gilbert Francis Deneau.

Now there was a man that if you knew him you loved him. You just couldn't refrain from loving Gil Deneau and he loved you right back.

He had that super gift from God of love and showered us all generously with it. You had only to be present to get a double dose. Maybe that's what left us each with a smile when we had to finally leave off visiting our good friend.

Besides that wonderful gift, it was just a pleasure and honor to know this man who loved his Savior Jesus Christ and was straight talking about how embracing Jesus could lift your burdens and wash away your sin just as He had done for Gil.

What bold and refreshing honesty Gil brought to that simple truth with his generous spirit of sharing something so life changing with anybody or everybody. His generosity didn't know any limits.

We laughed together many times, prayed together, worried about our children together: he was the best Christian friend I ever had and a man I miss every time I look around in need of good counsel or a good Gil Deneau hug!

I'm so glad that he and Linda had their time together because he loved her so much and she loved him so much. Truly it was a match of perfect partners and perfect timing made in Heaven.

Every time I think of Gil I smile and thank God for blessing me and Lainey with this most special friend and brother in Christ. Every day we knew Gil was a day of blessing.

Darcy Casavant

August 6, 2008

As much as I've been thinking about Dad, it's difficult to know what to write--about our inside jokes, our shopping dates, watching him do the New York Times crossword in his bathrobe, how he was the only one my first cat accepted beyond me, the daily ins and outs of being his (step)daughter since I was six years old? How do I put that in a few words?

A couple weeks ago, I was at the Texas State Aquarium with my one-year old daughter. I watched her eyes light up watching the fish and dolphins and turtles. I tried to find the names for her, but I told her that her Grandpa would have done it much better.

The light in her eyes is your legacy to her, Dad. Me raising her to be a strong and righteous woman is your legacy to me.

Thank you for being a Daddy. I love you.

Linda Nardecchia

August 6, 2008

Gil and I met via the internet when we were both doing research on our Deneau family. We began a wonderful friendship and shared information on our family research. His Great Grandfather and mine were part of a 13 sibling family and we considered ourselves cousins. He had hoped to come to Michigan where we would be able to compare family notes. I will miss him dearly and my heart goes out to his family at this time. They will be in my thoughts and prayers.

joan hensley

August 5, 2008

i will miss gil .we were long lost cousins,who discovered each other via e-mail a few years ago.his dad donald was a favorite uncle of mine.his children can be proud of gil and his dad!his dad sang at home also.donald and i sang while my aunt played piano.miss my e-mail cousin

Our Family Portrait ... we felt so very blessed! April 19, 2008

August 5, 2008

Gil with the Best Man, his son, Jason! It was a great day for both of them! April 19, 2008

August 5, 2008

Our very FIRST KISS ... we had an old fashioned courtship and stayed pure in our relationship and kept our first kiss for after we became husband and wife. We had them play "Yes Lord, Yes Lord, Yes, Yes Lord, Yes Lord, Yes Lord, Yes, Yes Lord, AMEN!"

August 5, 2008

Joan Deneau

August 5, 2008

I had not met Gil, he was my husband's(Belmont) cousin. Over the last 8 years we kept in touch via e-mail. He was a man of many interests. I know that he is deeply missed by his family. My heart goes out to you for your loss.

Amy Deneau

July 30, 2008

Dad certainly took an adventure throughout his lifetime. I am sorry I didn't get to learn everything I could about him, but from the time I did know him he wasn't shy about telling a story or giving some tidbit he had experienced. From what I've seen he has made some impact on the people around him, and I believe alot of that has come from his own experiences and celebrating it or dealing with it through his spiritual walk with God. This is where I most know him. He wasn't a fanatic, but if you asked him a question about something or asked what he was doing it all seemed to end with him working toward a rightous living/healthy living with God. I am so proud of all that he had accomplished and strove to achieve. He was a strong man who kept his eyes forward, and worked to find viable solutions to...."LIFE". His walk led him to Sacramento, where he was ready to embark on another adventure, something he needed. To live a life that he worked hard to maintain. I can see how he fit so well in Linda's family, everyone willing to embrace the goodness of eachother. I am sorry he had such a short time from even the time he retired to really be retired. But he did fullfill many of those wishes by finding love again, traveling, and his personal hobbies of writing and geneology (a true book nut!). I know he will be in our hearts and we will remember what a good Christian man he was, and remember to eat that spriitual food to help keep our faith, minds, and hearts strong.
Amy Culverson(Deneau)
Thomas Deneau

Gil's Bible and Daily Devotional, flowers from his daughters, Eugenia and Sabrena. His favorite flower and color combined in the blue tulips from his wife. Gil's 'Celebration of Life' table in the Church Sanctuary on June 21, 2008.

July 29, 2008

Display of pictures on a memory board, art work from grandkids, Grand Hotel photos of us, and guest book in Church foyer for Gil's Memorial Service on June 21, 2008.

July 29, 2008

Gil in our backyard. We had all the family over to celebrate Alec's 4th birthday .. they waited 'til we returned from our honeymoon so we could all be together!

July 29, 2008

With Jason and Kim ... also 'dressed' for our fabulous dinner at the Grand Hotel. What a night we all had.

July 29, 2008

Outside our Grand Hotel Room 194E ... We were so glad to finally arrive! A big night for us and the kids!

July 29, 2008

Gil was having fun taking pictures of us with our own camera by stretching out his arm and then taking the shot when he was ready ... even if I wasn't! F-U-N

July 29, 2008

Another picture of us 'dressed' for dinner at the Grand Hotel. It was a fabulous night and we were so happy to be there together! Check out the interior of the hotel behind us.

July 29, 2008

Another shot of Gil next to our ride from the Ferry to the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, MI. They don't allow ANY motorized vehicles on the Island at all. Everything that's delivered to the Island must also be horse drawn .. no truck deliveries at all

July 29, 2008

Here we are eating at "Fat Cats" on the docks at Avila Beach, CA. 'Galahad', our honeymoon car, is in the background! This place served good food ... big portions ... like for truck drivers! We loved it.

July 29, 2008

This is at Avila Beach, CA on our honeymoon in April 2008. I collected odd shaped rocks for souvenirs. It was beautiful and peaceful there. We both loved 'looking' at the water ... but not being in it! One of our 'soul mate' things we shared!

July 29, 2008

Gil with Jason and Kim playing a dice game called GREED ... his competitive side showed itself as he continued to win game after game! It was so much fun and left all four of us laughing! Taken at one of the many hotels we stayed at in Michigan, May 2008

July 29, 2008

Cody Jackson

July 29, 2008

from the moment i met gil i knew he was a kind soul, i had not seen my grandma glow so brightly in some time. I dont think we can say enough about him he was a rare gem in this tattered world.when i became ill in march of this year gil had told me he was praying for me every morning and night,I cant describe how wonderfull that made me feel to know i had a prayer being said for me every day.I will miss him as we all will, he was an irreplaceable man and he will always be on our minds.

Bonnie and Donnie Earnest

July 26, 2008

Gil, Bonnie and I love you very much and will miss you so. We knew you for such a short time, but we have great memories, and powerful blessings to hold on to. We were looking forward to spending time together as couples. Our prayers of healing and peace are for our good friend Linda and all the family. Until we meet again!
Your brother & sister,
Donnie & Bonnie

Mike Miller

July 25, 2008

I am truly amazed what a person he was! We gave each other a hard time when ever we saw each other!! He would always ask if I was "being" good and told all the staff at Vintage Natomas Field to "watch out for "him". He had such a demeanor about him that attracted everyone. It was a great pleasure to have met him. I am so sorry to have him move away from our property and happy that he was going to be with the person he was with! I have great respect for this man that I only new to short! God bless you Gill and all your loved ones and friends.
Mike Miller...Vintage Natomas Fields

Teri Brown

July 24, 2008

I only knew Gil a short time but long enough to know what an amazing person he was and how happy he was. He is truly a special person and is missed.

donna hironymous

July 24, 2008

GIL WAS OLD FASHION, MANNERLY AND KIND. HE WAS SOFT SPOKEN AND ALWAYS HAD A
SMILE ON HIS FACE. I WILL MISS
HIM AT FAMILY GET-TO-GETHERS
FOR THOMAS.GOD BLESS ALL OF
HIS FAMILY

Mike and Shelley Windham

July 22, 2008

Gil was a very fond friend who will be missed very much!! He was a mentor to Mike and a prayer warrior for our family. His presence will be missed. Beside all that, I know of his deep love for the Lord and I take joy in knowing he is face to face with the Lord. His commitment to his marriage with Linda was inspiring. The last year of his life was filled with great joy! I know he loved his children and grandchildren very much. He spent a lot of time bragging whenever we could visit. He was very excited for Darcy and her little one. I pray the Lord will continue to minister to all who mourn and that joy will return in the morning.

Charles Robert Bates

July 22, 2008

Gil blessed my Mother and our family with his life and love. I miss him very much even though I only knew him for a short time. He is a great example of a man, and I will try to apply his influence to my life. He truly was, as well as my Mother, a light in the darkness. Which is probably one of the reasons they were so perfect together. Thank you Gil. I love you. I look forward to seeing you again.

Alicia Gomez

July 20, 2008

Well, I'd been having a bit of trouble understanding why God took Gil from us so soon after we met. I was speaking to God about this one day when it occured to me, actually God told me, "Hey, I didn't take him away too soon. I actually let him live longer!" So, with that I have to remind myself that Gil didn't actually leave too soon, according to God's plan, and I praise God that I got to meet Gil and get to know him. I am so sad for my mom that she no longer gets to have him in her everyday life. As much as we understand that Gil is incredibly happy and healthy and can sing again up in Heaven, we miss him terribly and it still hurts to not see his happy face regularly. I love you Gil and thank you so much for making my mom so happy!

Sue Imig

July 17, 2008

Linda -
I was so sorry to miss the Celebration of Gil's life, but we were out of State, though you and yours were in my thoughts and prayers during that time! What a woman of grace you were...are... and the love you shared with so gentle a man has been seen by many of us who know your story these past weeks. I will never forget the looks the 2 of you would share during Bible study - like the old married, we are in love looks, that come by knowing your union was ordained by God - even for the short time your example spoke volumes and now you continue to show that GRACE and LOVE.... it was short, that time with Gil, but it seems like a lifetime ... he was like a comfortable mitten so-to-speak.....warm and available if needed - Love, Sue.

Meeting my Mom and StepDad in Indianapolis, IN ... so glad we had this time together. May 2008

July 16, 2008

Having dinner at the Olive Garden with Renee's family in Troy OH. Great food ... great company! May 2008

July 16, 2008

Gil and his sister, Renee, in Troy, OH ... they hadn't seen each other for a few years. They sure enjoyed this time with each other! May 2008

July 16, 2008

Breakfast at Grand Hotel with Jason and Kim. We had so much FUN ... I'm glad he got to make this trip and make a dream come true for both of us! May 2008

July 16, 2008

Gil next to our ride from the Ferry to the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. May 2008

July 16, 2008

Gil and me at the Grand Hotel dressed for our 5 course dinner in the Hotel Dining Room. May 2008

July 16, 2008

Smoochin' on the Ferry ride to Mackinac Island to the Grand Hotel. May 2008

July 16, 2008

The kissin' newlyweds outside 'Call of the Wild' museum in Gaylord, MI. May 2008

July 16, 2008

Gil in front of the old Catholic Church he attended as a young man in Gaylord, MI. May 2008

July 16, 2008

Gil having a little fun inside the Embassy Suites courtyard on our honeymoon. April 2008

July 16, 2008

Having a little fun feeding each other at Gaylord, MI ice cream parlor. May 2008

July 16, 2008

Eating our with Jason and Kim on our road trip in Michigan, May 2008.

July 16, 2008

At the Embassy Suite Restaurant in Seaside, CA on our Honeymoon!

July 16, 2008

Gil at entrance to Avila La Fonda Hotel on our honeymoon ... April 2008

July 16, 2008

Had to find a P.O. for post card stamps ... Gil by 'Galahad', our honeymoon car!

July 16, 2008

Across the corner from our honeymoon hotel in Avila Beach CA ... Gil having a little fun ... thinks he can hide from me!

July 16, 2008

Outside balcony at Avila La Fonda Hotel April 2008 on our honeymoon.

July 16, 2008

In Hospitality Room at Avila La Fonda Hotel in Avila Beach, CA on honeymoon.

July 16, 2008

The happy Groom in Embassy Suites at Seaside, CA April 19, 2008

July 16, 2008

Carol Vasas

July 16, 2008

I knew Gil for a very short time, but in that time, he brought much joy to all who knew him. He'd see me and smile and ask how I was & I could tell that he really cared how I felt. The very fact that he made my precious friend Linda so happy, made me happy too. Gil will be greatly missed, but he left much joy behind & many people more blessed for having known him.

Eddy Salmons

July 16, 2008

Gil was truly a gentleman and a scholar. His love for the Lord and knowledge of the Word were profound and inspiring to me. He was a man of honor and integrity, a very rare and genuine man with a kind heart and a gentle spirit. His sense of humor and smile brought me joy whenever I was around him, as I am sure it did others as well. Sometimes I could be in a Bible study with him or somewhere else and hear something that struck me as funny and I would glance over at Gil, and he would know exactly what I was thinking for he was smiling too. Without a word we would both understand and laugh with our eyes. He was a man beyond his surroundings. He was a light in a world of darkness. I am very thankful to have known him. I am honored to have been his friend. I was looking forward to learning so much from him. I truly miss him. He was married to a great woman and someone who has shown me unconditional love and has accepted me as one of her own. Linda is awesome woman, with an awesome family, who inspires me. She has been there for me in some of my darkest times. She is my spiritual mother. I pray that our Father will bless her and bring her peace and healing and I thank Him now for her being in my life.

I will miss you Gil. See you when I get there.

Eddy Salmons

Renee Balentine

July 16, 2008

I've known Gil for about 5 years, we worked together in Stockton. We talked alot and I enjoyed his stories and advice. By the looks of this picture of him he looks so happy and he has been through alot. Thank you for making him so happy Linda!

Shirley McNeil

July 15, 2008

Linda: Your message was so
full of love and gratitude for
having met Gil. I did not
know him but I sure did see
the smile he put on your face.
I'm so glad that you two
found each other and that you
had the special 8 weeks
together as husband and wife.
Even though Gil is gone, you
are one lucky "Lady Linda" to
have had found someone that
made you so happy. May his
memory continue to be a blessing.
Love you,
Shirley

Bill Hartin

July 15, 2008

Gil was a awesome guy who loved the lord. We will all truly miss him. I will personally miss the conversations Gil and I shared in which he almost always managed to encourage me or make me laugh. Gil had great wisdom. May God continue to bless Linda and the entire Deneau/Stahl family.

Our teenage grandkids on December 23, 2007. at Gil's clubhouse.

July 15, 2008

Our wedding toast on April 19, 2008.

July 15, 2008

Gil used this pic in his profile on Match.com where we met. His grandson, Thomas with him. Got me interested!

July 15, 2008

Gil happy about his Sci-Fi DVD Christmas present from me! December 2008

July 15, 2008

Gil stuffing wedding invitations. He said he was 'in his element' and enjoyed helping.

July 15, 2008

Gil's first chair massage. He did it just for me, he said! April 2008

July 15, 2008

Gil's first time at the driving range ... he sure had a good time! April 2008

July 15, 2008

Gil with his Mom, Nell Vernier. I met her that day and she hugged me really tight.

July 15, 2008

Gil and Linda at Singles BBQ.Same day we first said "I love you" to each other.He's so HANDSOME!

July 15, 2008

We sure loved cuddling ... it was awesome and I felt so safe and loved!

July 15, 2008

March 2008 ... first time we ever walked in the park ... we had so much FUN!

July 15, 2008

This is one of my favorite photos, it's my screen saver too. We're in local park ... beautiful day!

July 15, 2008

Here we are at 'our' Panera Bread where we first met, July 26, 2008 .. we always laughed together!

July 15, 2008

MariJane Stahl

July 15, 2008

Our wonderful Gil! You made quite an impact on our lives, and so missed by us all! I know you are singing, snapping your fingers, and laughing with the Lord. Thank you for being a great part of our lives, even though it was too short. Love ya lots!

Kelly Einsel

July 14, 2008

To my friends Linda & family, and to the Deneau family...

I only knew Gil for a matter of months, but I must say, it felt like he had always been a part of our lives. From the moment I met him, I could see what a genuinely terrific man he was. His smile was contagious. You couldn't not be his friend.

I treasure our chats, laughs, Bible Studies and the example of a godly man that Gil was. He lit the room as he entered and left us giggling as he left. I am thankful for the privilege of knowing him.

My prayers have been with you all. May you all experience the peace that surpasses all understanding and the hope of seeing him singing to our Savior in heaven.

Rosa vasquez

July 14, 2008

Gil you will be soooo missed! Thank you for giving Linda a wonder smile that she wears everyday since meeting you. Rosa

Michele Jackson-Wood

July 14, 2008

I love you Gil. You will forever be in our hearts. Thank you for helping me when I needed a "dad" to talk to. Thank you for the BIG BEAR hugs every time I saw you. Even though I only got to spend 11 months with you here on earth, I fell in love with you like it was a lifetime. See you in Heaven big guy. LOVE YA, Michele

This was taken on September 15, 2007 when Gil first told me he loved me out by his car under the moonlight! It was so wonderful, I confessed my love for him too and we both were so happy. I 'floated' back in the house as he left for home.

July 13, 2008

Mrs. Linda Faye Deneau

July 13, 2008

My sweetheart, Gil, had a quirky sense of humor, and brought laughter, love, and compassion to many. I was the recipient of his unconditional love and devotion. We were precious to each other. We were soul mates and I'm grateful that the Lord put us together even though the time was short. We considered ourselves to be totally blessed! He was my Knight and I was his Lady Linda. We were the happiest either of us has ever been ... we shared more in the 11 months we knew each other than most couples share in a lifetime. We had 8 wonderful, loving, blessed weeks as husband and wife. We shared a love for the Lord and put Him first in our lives and our marriage. I know I will see Gil again ... the Lord works everything to the good of those that love Him ... Thank you Jesus for the hope you give us. I will love my Gil forever.

Kim Deneau

July 13, 2008

I miss you...

Eugenia Doucette

July 13, 2008

I am the eldest daughter of Gil. From my childhood I remember his wonderful singing voice. One of his favorites was a Johnny Cash song called "Trailer for Sale or Rent". He could mimic the cartoon character Yogi Bear really well. He was a great actor as a teenager and his grandchild James is the spitting image of him and resembles Dad's acting talents. James is also named after my Dad (James Anthony Gilbert Deneau). Marc another child ( I have 7 in total) also shares Dad's middle name of Francis (Marc Francis).
One of my favorite stories of his childhood memories was when his Dog came to mass one Day. Dad was selected to serve a special High Mass that was very hard to get selected for. During the middle of mass the Dog came trouncing down the aisle and Dad was totally embarrased and wanted to crawl under the pew! Needless to say the escapade of the Dog wound up in a chase around the church as the Master of Ceremonies tried to capture 'Doc'' Here is the writing entry of my Dad from his writings he gave me a year ago.
'I was selected to serve as an altar boy at our church. I studied the responses in Latin we were to give and was soon one of the best acolytes. Each year in the late spring, a graduation Mass was scheduled for the Senior Class. It was one the the highlights of the school year. Due to my rapid progress, I was selected to serve at the solemn event. I arrived early at church, an everything began smoothly in the ceremony. About halfway throught the rite, the head priest, Monsignor Kaminski, heard chuckling in the congregation. He turned to face the people to recite a prayer. Out of the corner of my eye, I got a glimpse of a black object in front of the communion rail. I turned my head and there was Doc! His littile tail wagging happily to see me. I was mortified. I wanted to melt away. The priest turned back to continue the liturgy. When he finished, he leaned over to me and said in a whisper, "Do you know whose dog that is?" "Why no, Monsginor, I've never seen him before!, I blurted out. In a small town like ours, he already knew whose dog it was! There I was busted! To make matters worse, the assistant priest, Father Golas, decided to try to shoo the intruder out of the church. As he began to chase Doc around the interior of the building, members of the congregation giggled and laughed. They almost cheered that Doc was eluding capture. Doc thought it was play time, and around and around they went with the priest's black cassock flying behind him. Finally, someone had pity and opened a side door, and Doc exited ahead of his pursuer. When I caught up with him later, he was calmly resting in front of the garage as if nothing had happened. What did I learn as a young boy from my experience with Doc? I learned to value loyalty and friendship. Sometimes, even those attributes can still land one in hot water!!' (Gil Deneau, Spring 2000)

This is special to my family as my 4 boys have learned the Latin Mass responses and have goofed now and again. To help them recover from their mortifications I relay this story to them remember their grandpa and to help them not feel too bad!

My Dad loved to write and had a list for everything. I take after Gil in this respect. I have lists for groceries, to do lists, projects, chores for the kids etc. I also love to write as one can probably tell.. I speak better in writing than in words another quality of Dad's that I inherited as well although in his latter years he became quite the talker!!!
Another family past time I will treasure is "family resemblance". It was a facial expression we all made as we took pictures.
One of my favorite pictures is the four generations of my great grandma Eugenia, Grandma Nell, Gil (Dad) and I.
Even though we were seperated for 13 years right after the divorce of my mom and him, I still treasure the times we did have when I was a child and as a grown up. In fact our reunion was a miracle on the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe Dec 12th 1986 as I made the phone call to the house in San Jose being scared to death! The next day St Lucy's feast day Dec 13th we were reunited. St Lucy was the eldest daughter in her family and in Scandinavia on this feast day the eldest daughter brings a special food to her parents.
I remember that first day vividly. I cooked a spaghetti dinner for him and was so nervous I cooled the noodles too much that the dinner was ruined! My Dad just sat there and patiently ate the dinner gratefully as my 'adopted church brother' complained at the time while Dad was saying shush and kept eating!

It would take a whole book to write about my memories of Dad.. May his soul rest in peace..

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