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Gilbert Mata Obituary
Gilbert Esteban Mata, known by many as "Gibby," died unexpectedly on January 9, 2017 at the age of 26. He graduated from Clark High School in 2009 where he excelled as a linebacker in football and also graduated from St. Mary's University in 2013 with a double major in Criminal Justice and Political Science. His passion for adventure led him to leave his hometown of San Antonio, Texas to pursue a career as a Private Investigator for Coburn Investigative Agency Inc., in Denver, Colorado. Never one to settle, Gilbert continued to further his education at the University of Denver and was hours away from earning his Masters in International Security.
As strong as his drive was to accomplish all that he envisioned for himself, nothing was more important to Gilbert than his love for family and friends. A hug from Gilbert was strong and sincere; the affection in his embraces spoke louder than words. The care he showed his dog "Emma" was certainly another example of that love. There was hardly a day that she was not either sitting on his shoulder, or foremost on his mind. He played hard and laughed even harder; always creating new memories, and never failing to reminisce about the old ones. One could often hear him talk about simple pleasures such as watching horror movies with family and pretending not to be scared, or cheering on his Denver Broncos and his hometown Spurs every chance he had. Whatever life brought before him, Gilbert embraced it with his infectious smile and truly lived each moment to its fullest. During his time at St. Mary's University, Gilbert was chosen to participate in an overseas study in Innsbruck, Austria where he reveled in eye opening experiences and immersed himself in various cultures with an intense hunger for new knowledge. His extensive travels throughout Europe were filled with amazing new foods and great beer.
Gilbert is preceded in death by his sister, Jennifer Renae Mata who joined the Lord in 2002. He is survived by his father Gilbert Mata; his mother Aida Guillory and stepfather Gary Guillory; sisters Nicci Mata, Lisa Cantu; his stepsisters Emily and Mary Arden Guillory; his stepbrother Colby Guillory; his son Carson Elliott Mata; Tonya Smith; his paternal grandparents Raymond and Ernestina "Tina" Mata; his maternal grandparents Salvador L. and Paula C. Belmares; his uncles Roger Mata, Paul Mata, Charles Mata, Salvador C. Belmares, Rene Belmares, Eduardo Belmares; his aunt Anna Mata and many other family members including numerous cousins that will miss him dearly.
A Visitation will begin on Wednesday, January 18, 2017 at Porter Loring on McCullough Ave. at 4:00 pm followed by a Rosary Service at 7:30 pm. PROCESSION WILL DEPART FROM PORTER LORING, THURSDAY, JANUARY 19, 2017 AT 10:00 AM FOR A FUNERAL MASS AT HOLY ROSARY CATHOLIC CHURCH, 159 CAMINO SANTA MARIA AT 10:30 AM followed by the burial at Resurrection Cemetery Cordi-M arian, 11624 Culebra Road. You are invited to sign the guestbook at www.porterloring.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Gilbert Mata
Sponsored by Porter Loring Mortuary McCullough.
RobinLee Pennington
April 23, 2017
I still cry everyday at the thought of you gone. Some days are easier then others. Some days you show me you're still near. We never could venture far from each other. You'd fly me to you around my birthday just to make sure I knew how much you loved me. You and I always found ourselves back together. I remember the thrill and excitement of getting an assigned seat next to you in Mr. Brown's aquatic science class. I remember bringing you tacos and starting this wonderful relationship. I remember you scaring me in the airport and wrapping me in your arms and swinging me around. You never cared what anyone else thought. I remember prom and how you dragged me to the dance floor. I remember climbing several mountains with you and you leading us up the manitou incline. I remember the house parties we went to all the time. I remember you calling me to pick you up at the senior lock-in just to be with me. I remember camping with your family. I remember reading and having coffee together and you saying, "Better get used to this, because this is what our forever looks like." I remember my favorite birthday with you, Emma and I having a picnic at the lake where we fed ducks and hiked to the most beautiful waterfall where you asked me to be with you forever. I remember our getaway to Port Arkansas when we were just kids. I remember your story of how you found out I was graduating. We had so many more plans for this lifetime. I will never be the same without you. Even though you took all the pictures we had together with you to heaven, they are still in my heart. You were clearly loved by so many. Im just thankful to have known you for so many years and got to know the real you.
Love forever and always,
Red
The pain of living in this world without will never truly go away, it just hides sometimes. Some days are easier than others. Miss you so much
Autumn George
April 13, 2017
Autumn George
April 13, 2017
Annie Le Fleur
March 11, 2017
I will never forget you . We went to school together , you and I , we had some laughs , we took the same courses , and shared the same views . In the summer of our junior year of college , we both went to Innsbruck , where we got to visit the UN, climb mountains in Switzerland , and drink the best beer in Germany . After college , I moved to Denver to pursue my law career and it was only this year that I realized that we had been living in the same city for the last three years . I wish we would have spoken sooner . We got together in November and I was just so happy to know you again and to catch up on the time that had been missing . For weeks after New Years , I thought you had fallen off of the face of the world . Now I realize , that you were gone permanently . I will never forget you and the beautiful moments we shared . There were so many .
Sincerely yours ,
I knew Gilbert would be someone important in my life the moment I met him last year. You set the bar high, it goes to show that what I was looking for does exist. It was like I had known him for years...his smile, his way of being, everything about him br
Karen Vidrio-Aguirre
January 31, 2017
I knew Gilbert would be someone important in my life the moment I met him last year. You set the bar high, it goes to show that what I was looking for does exist. It was like I had known him for years...his smile, his way of being, everything about him brightened up my day just by seeing him or hearing his voice. I had never met a man in my life that has impacted me the way he did. Even taking care of Emma reflected who he was as a person. I will have you in my heart forever, and I will see you again one day. I will cherish our moments together, and they'll replay over and over...rest in peace. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Lauren Schimmel
January 30, 2017
My heart is broken over this loss. Gibby, I will always remember you as the sweetest, kindest, most sincere little boy ever. You were precious and like one of my little brothers...I know that we have lost you in the physical but spiritually you are with us now and forever. Stay close. I love you!
RobinLee Pennington
January 23, 2017
Autumn George
January 21, 2017
I wouldn't have made it through 2016 without you Gilbert.. I will never forget the knowledge I've learned from you and the memories we shared together. You will always be the love of my life.. you're living proof some things are too perfect to exist. Love always, Autumn
Rita Medrano
January 19, 2017
Sorry for your loss may the good lord be with you and yours during this difficult time.
Take comfort in knowing that you now
have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
blessings,
Rita A. Medrano ( Ryan's Mom)
Grace Sanchez
January 19, 2017
My deepest condolences to the Mata family.Gibby was such a sweet and caring young man with a heart of gold , and a infectious smile. That will never be forgotten. He will truly be missed!
cody simmons
January 19, 2017
so sorry fore your loss he was a nice person he whell always be one
January 18, 2017
Gibby, your St. Francis CYO team members and coaches will never forget all your contributions; what an impact you made! My deepest sympathies to the Mata family. Coach Robert
Greg and Stacey Raidl
January 18, 2017
Our hearts and prayers go out to your family and loved ones for peace and comfort. God Bless.
indira reddy
January 18, 2017
Gibby was a wonderful child, teenager and young man. My dearest Aida, I hope you will find peace in the memory of this beautiful child.
Indi Reddy
Joel, Andy, Landon, AJ, Alyssa, Matt
January 18, 2017
Gilbz! A great and considerate man taken from all of us far too soon. We will always remember the memories we shared together over the past few years. Thanks for being someone we could always count on and for being a joy to be around. One day we all hope to share an ice cold Montucky up in Heaven with you.
You will be sincerely missed by your friends in Colorado. Sending you and your family our deepest sympathies and praying for you.
Debbie Ortega
January 18, 2017
My deepest condolences to you and your family. I had the privilege of meeting Gilbert through my son, Eddie. I will keep you in my prayers during this difficult time to find peace and comfort in your hearts.
Kim Rollins-Pompa
January 18, 2017
Gil, Aida, Nicci & family - I was blessed to have known Gibby since he was 5. He & my son Stephen were best friends in Colorado from kinder - 2nd grade. I have many memories of Gibby that always make me smile & mostly laugh. Gibby always has had a special place in my heart. I will miss you and hearing about all the great things you've done. Your dad was so proud of you & I'm sure your mom & sister were too. RIP sweet young man. Keeping your family in my prayers to find peace & comfort. With lots of love & deepest condolences-
Lanell Boldt
January 18, 2017
Gibby was the sweetest, caring, and motivated young man. His passing is devastating and beyond heartbreaking. My deepest deepest sympathy to the family. Your pain and sorrow are beyond understanding. I am praying for your strength and God's loving arms to wrap you in His peace.
Dara Dunn
January 18, 2017
My deepest condolences to the family. Rip Gibby.
Bev, Mike, and Scott Patterson
January 18, 2017
We are heartbroken that Gibby is not still with his earthly family, but we know his Heavenly Father has welcomed him with open arms. Gibby had a full life, he was respected, he was happy, and he was so loved.
Our prayers are with you, Aida and Gary, and with all of Gibby's family. God loves you and so do we.
January 17, 2017
I am deeply saddened by the timely passing of Gilbert Mata, who was one of the brightest stars in my Fall, 2016 Seminar on Conflict Resolution. He was among at the few at the top --his papers were quite analytical, well-written, thoughtful. He was curious and courteous in the classroom and respected by his peers. The best memory is his role as "Joe Biden, US Vice President" during a day-long role playing simulate on the Israeli-Palestinian dispute near the end of the academic term, where he as an active member of the American team.
Deep condolences to the family. I am sure Gilbert (that's how I called him) is watching from the spiritual world and hoping we are on the pathway to peace; still, we all miss his earthly presence.
With sincerely sympathy,
Karen Feste, Ph.D.
Professor, University of Denver
January 17, 2017
I am shocked and saddened by the untimely death of Gilbert Mata whom knew as a student in my Conflict Resolution Seminar during Fall quarter, 2016. He was among the small group at the top in academic performance; his papers were highly analytic, well written, indeed quite impressive--indications of a thoughtful, active mind, a person destined for a successful future. And I shall remember him best for his role of "Vice President Joe Biden" in the American delegation for a role playing simulation dealing with the Israeli-Palestinian peace processes that was conducted at near the end of the academic term. Gilbert (as I knew him) was articulate, bright, serious, blessed with talent. My deepest, sincere condolences to his family. Surely he is watching over all of us from the spiritual realm as we remember the contributions in his earthy existence and his peaceful nature.
With sympathy,
Karen Feste, Ph.D.
Professor, University of Denver
Diana Corvin
January 17, 2017
Nicci and family,
No words can take your pain away. But I want you to know I'm here for you. We will all miss Gibby's big smile. Gibby and Jenn is having a great time in heaven with one another. You will be in my prayers. Lots of love.
Diana Corvin
Lori Hakspiel
January 17, 2017
Aida, My prayers are with you during this time I will sincerely pray that God touches you with a peace that passes all understanding. And that you are more then aware it was He who touched you and your Family ;(
Pamela Duffy
January 17, 2017
Aida, Gary and family: Our thoughts and prayers are always with y'all. The memories of Gibby will always be in all of our hearts. He's with God watching over y'all at all times with that huge smile of his on his face. Please let us know if we can help with anything at all. We love y'all. Love always, Mary and Pamela Duffy and Michael Luna
Beatrice Guajardo-Candela
January 17, 2017
Aida and family, so sorry for your loss. I will keep you in my prayers and thoughts. May God bless you all.
Rudy, Lori and Emily Fernandez
January 17, 2017
Our sincerest, heartfelt condolences to the Mata Family. May you find comfort with God's Love and Peace in your hearts.
Adrian Alanis
January 17, 2017
Gilbert, you were like the twin I never had. Playing football with you were some of the best times of my life. I remember wrecking in JV with you because the seniors had to play. Wish you were still with us laughing and having a good time. You will be missed always. A part of our hearts has broken off and will never be whole again. May God embrace you in his heavenly arms.
Family, I'm so sorry for your loss and I hope that yall can find peace in God. This isn't fair and there are no words to console your hearts, but know that the Alanis family is praying for you everyday.
Steve @ Diane Little
January 17, 2017
Expressing our sadness And love for your loss
Randal & Elaine Larson
January 17, 2017
We will always remember Gibby as a star athlete with a smile that lit up the entire room. His time on earth was way too short but his impact on others will last forever. May God's grace bring you peace and comfort. You are in our prayers.
Diane Dowdell
January 17, 2017
So very sorry for your loss. Gibby was an amazing, vibrant, honorable, and kind young man.
Diana Zuniga
January 17, 2017
My condolences
Mary Herrera
January 17, 2017
My deepest sympathy for Gibby's family and friends. Gibby was an awesome intern at St. Mary's CLSJ. He was always willing to do more. Terrible loss. You couldn't help but smile when he was around. He stood out.
Ann Jones
January 17, 2017
With my deepest sympathy for the loss of your precious son.
The lost of a child no matter the age leaves a hole in your heart, that can only be filled with the memories that were made in his short life. His zest for life and adventure. He had such an infectious laugh and he always had a hug for me. He will truly be missed.
Ann Jones, San Antonio,Tx
Marsha Jurewicz
January 17, 2017
Gil and family:
I have been praying for you every day.
Bobbi Lutz
January 17, 2017
Aida and Family,
May you feel God's presence during this time of your loss. My prayers are with you and your family and know that you especially are close to my heart now. The loss of a child is more than we can handle, but I know that God will give you the strength to move forward. God's Blessings to you my friend, Bobbi Lutz
Linda Boehme
January 17, 2017
Aida,
I am so sorry for the loss of your precious son, and pray for God's grace and blessings for you and your family now and forever.
Vicki Chapman
January 17, 2017
Aida and family:
I am so very sorry for your loss! You are in my prayers! If I can do anything to help you, please let me know!
Anna Redwolf
January 17, 2017
Coach Gil and family - My heart felt condolences for the lose of little Gibby. He was striving for the stars and I know your proud of what he accomplished. Remain faithful and know that God has a plan for us all and we will see Gibby again.
Rosin and Jose Luis Velasquez
January 16, 2017
Aida, Nicci and Gil;
We are so so very heartbroken. Such great memories we hold in our hearts. His smile, sweetness, love for life and hugs will never be forgotten. You will always be in our hearts. Rest in Peace Gibby.
Marshall Weldon
January 16, 2017
With my deepest sympathy for your loss SMSgt Mata! So very sorry to hear this!
Sonia Cisneros
January 16, 2017
Until we met again Gibby. Forever you are in my heart.
Gilbert Alonzo
January 16, 2017
Our Deepest Condolences and Sincerest Synpathy on the loss of your son. May the Lord embrace Gibby at the Gates of Heaven.Mr.
Belinda Arnold
January 16, 2017
My heart goes out to all of his family. May God be with you all.
Scott Gray
January 16, 2017
Aida - I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you as you and your family go through this most difficult of times.
John Moreno
January 16, 2017
Rest in Peace! Im so sad to hear this, breaks my heart!
Carrie Munoz, Lynete, Chloe, Rocco Medrano
January 16, 2017
Our most sincere condolences for your family's loss. May care and love of those around you provide comfort and peace to get you through the day's ahead. May Gibby rest in peace. Love you Roger and Laura.
Christopher Henson
January 16, 2017
Very sorry for your loss. My prayers are with your family.
Dannette Ortega
January 16, 2017
"I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples", Mother Teresa. Gibby cast many stones in his life. The ripples will continue! I remember when the boys were in High School and Gibby wanted to play rugby, with many of his football buddies. He told me his mom, Aida, forbid it. He said she would not cook for him if he played. Gibby did not play. He loved and honored his mom and family.
January 16, 2017
I am at a loss for words! We are so sad to hear about the loss of your beautiful son. Grant recently saw him and said he was thriving in Denver.I remember him as always having a huge smile on his face. Such a delightful young man. Praying for strength and love during this difficult time. Heaven gains a beautiful soul!!!
The Powell Family
Miguel F
January 16, 2017
Aida- I am so sad about this. I remember Gibby as one of the nicest kids in our CYO parent days. We love all of you and will always cherish the memories of our times together. Miguel Fernández
Sebastien M
January 16, 2017
Rest in peace my friend. Thank you for being the coolest and nicest guy at Locke Hill Elementary. Tell Jennifer I said hi. Love you buddy.
January 16, 2017
We are so so very sorry to hear about the loss of your beautiful son. He was so sweet, always with a smile and truly meant the world to his Clark family. God will keep him close, protect and take care of him. He will be a shinning light in heaven - Rest in Peace Gibby.
The Ozment family
Melinda Curry
January 16, 2017
Gibby was my student at Locke Hill Elementary School many years ago. I am heartbroken to hear of his passing. It appears that he was well on the way to making a positive mark on the world, as I always knew he would. Please know that he will remain in my heart, and his family in my prayers. Sending my deepest condolences.
Jennfer Johnson
January 16, 2017
I was blessed to have Gilbert as a student at Clark HS. He was a wonderful young man and we had a lot of good talks and laughs in my classroom. I have thought about him over the years and when I did, the memories of him and his class made me smile. My sincere condolences to his family and friends. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Had the opportunity to meet Gilbert through my friend vincent. Even though I only hung out with him a couple times his positive energy and love for life left an impact. I can also tell he lived his life to the fullest. Great guy overall. He will be missed
Bryan Garcia
January 16, 2017
Had the opportunity to meet Gilbert through my friend vincent. Even though I only hung out with him a couple times his positive energy and love for life left an impact. I can also tell he lived his life to the fullest. Great guy overall. He will be missed. My condolences go out to his family and friends. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers
Fields Family
January 16, 2017
Gil, We am so sorry for your loss. No parent should ever have to see their children pass. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family as you go through this trying time. We love you all. -Fields Family
Amy Kuharich
January 16, 2017
Aida, Nicci and family, my heart aches for your loss of Gibby. I remember meeting him when he was barely a teenager. What a handsome and talented man he grew up to be. My mom sends her condolences as well. I remember when Gibby was in our living room and my mom asked his what his grades were! Gibby just looked at me with that sweet smile and I looked back at him with a "that's my mom" look. We are both thinking of you and praying for your strength. He's with Jennifer now.
Dawn Smith
January 16, 2017
I only had the pleasure of meeting Gilbert once but that was all that was necessary for him to leave a lasting impression. He was funny and incredibly sweet. My sincere condolences to his family. You will all be in my prayers.
Roland Sanchez
January 16, 2017
Words cannot express how we feel for this terrible loss. Gibby will be missed but he will always be in our hearts, memories, and prayers.
Brett Alvheim
January 16, 2017
Aida - So sorry to hear of your loss. Words fail to express the sorrow felt by all. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Elise Vasquez
January 16, 2017
Gil,Aida,Gary,Nicci &Family,
My deepest condolences for the family, the words in this article said it best. He was a great person all around. I'm glad I was able to stay in contact with him all these years, he was always good to me, always made sure I was okay, and I will forever miss that. He was such a blessing, and I know in my heart, although still hurting, God chose him. My heart is hurting for all of the family, and all of his friends. He is in my prayers, as are you.
Laura MATA
January 16, 2017
RIP Gib. I know we'll see each other again. All our love.
Uncle Rog & Aunt Laura
Yvonne Rios-Smith
January 16, 2017
Aida, Nicci & Gil,
There are just not enough words to express how sorry I am for your loss of Gibby. I remember him always being such a sweet kid growing up. We will keep you all on our thoughts and prayers.
Sandy Durke
January 15, 2017
Gibby - we love you - we love your life - we will remember you always - We will miss you so much. Another angel in Heaven! Love, Sandy Durke and family.
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