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Gabriel Suarez Obituary

"A passion for flying" best describes the life of Gabriel Alexander Suarez. His primary love was flight and he was to have graduated from college this December with his B.S. in Aviation and his commercial pilot's license. As a toddler, Gabriel wanted nothing more than to be a pilot which he first achieved when he was 15. Gabriel lived a full life. He was a person of deep, committed faith who brought joy to everyone whose life he touched. Gabriel offered his service regularly to feed the homeless at the Watsonville Salvation Army. He always made a positive impression on others because of his sincerity and out-going personality. He was an avid reader on a variety of topics and enjoyed target shooting. He traveled to Southeast Asia, Canada, and Cuba. He also ate heartily and didn't hesitate to try different foods. Using his endless creativity, he wrote journals, drew, learned a variety of musical instruments, and composed songs.

Gabe is survived by his mother and father, Gloria and Vic Suarez of Freedom, by his brother Aaron and his wife, Pang, and by his brother, Brandon. He is also survived by his grandparents, Victor and Maria Suarez, as well as by numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. His elementary school years were spent in Visalia and Fresno where so many wonderful people positively influenced his development. In his life, he received remarkable support from the people at Holy Eucharist, the Watsonville aviation community, his St. Francis school family, and countless friends and relatives locally, as well as in New England, and around the country. He lived a vibrant 21 years--he now has his wings for all eternity!

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pajaro Valley Aviation Academy PVAA Scholarship Fund, 60 Aviation Way, Watsonville Airport, Watsonville, CA 95076 or to the Holy Eucharist "Homeless Program," 527 Corralitos Road, Corralitos, CA 95076.

Services will be held at Holy Eucharist Catholic Church on Friday, August 20. Visitation starts at 5:00 pm and Rosary at 6:30 pm. The Celebration Mass of Gabriel's life will begin at 7:00 pm. Mehl's Colonial Chapel was trusted with the funeral arrangements.

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Published by Santa Cruz Sentinel on Aug. 18, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Gabriel Suarez

Not sure what to say?





Fr.Vince Cotter

August 12, 2023

my thoughts and prayers are with you today...Fr. Vince Cotter

Hector Roman Garcia

August 12, 2021

No words of comfort can be found, upon losing a loved one. But, remembered smile and fun moments are never forgotten. I shall have him and family in my prayers. To my cousin, I love you and take care!

Nelson. Fagundok

April 22, 2017

He was the finest young man i have ever met

The Mahoney Family

September 9, 2010

Dear Suarez Family,

Please accept our deepest sympathies for the loss of your son, Gabe. You continue to be in our prayers.

Chris, Lalen, Keith & Shaun Alsing

September 4, 2010

To the Suarez Family
We are so sorry to hear about your loss. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers at this time ... and always.

September 2, 2010

To All the Suarez Family:

I have never been good with words, But, Our Love and Prayers shall always be present.

-Eddie-

September 1, 2010

Dear Vic and Gloria, May your strong faith and the comfort of friends and family help you with your loss. We're so sorry to hear of your son's passing. Always, Patricia and Michael Cox (Visalia, CA)

Rick and Linda Neuhaus

August 29, 2010

Dear Vic and Glo,

We were shocked to hear about the loss of your son Gabriel. We remember him as a young boy and his friendship with our son, Connor. In fact we let Connor know as soon as we heard the news. I have forwarded this link to him. We could not attend the services for Gabriel but we will remember him and honor your wishes by a donation to one of the charities listed. Our prayers and Mass intentions are with you.

Rick and Linda Neuhaus

carol castro

August 29, 2010

Dear Vic and Gloria,
I was so sad to hear of Gabriel's death. I remember when he started kindergarten at GMC, with you, Vic as the principal. May you find some comfort in God's loving embrace. I will be praying for you.

Nanouk Halpin

August 22, 2010

Hi Gabe,

Gabriella told me that you were a "great soul" and and after reading what your friends think about you, I now know she was right. Take good care of them from up there.

Too bad we did not have the chance to meet.

May peace be with you and with your family.

Paul LaBarre

August 22, 2010

I am very sorry for your loss.... Gabe was in my Public Speaking class at DWC and I got to know know him well. He was a special person and will be missed by all of us in the DWC community. My thoughts and prayers are with all his family...

John & Diane Timmermans

August 21, 2010

Victor, Gloria and Family,

We were so saddened to hear of the loss of your son, Gabriel. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.

Martina Boyd

August 21, 2010

I could not attend the service for Gabe , but took some personal time out at work during that time to send wishes out to the Universe for you all. Those are for Courage , Peace , and Love to be with now and always .

Terry & Mike Jurewicz

August 21, 2010

Gloria & vic
We were so sorry to hear of the loss of your wonderful son. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Scudder Baggett

August 20, 2010

Suarez Family,
I am extremely sorry for your loss. Gabe was a great crew partner this past year, and an even better friend. I enjoyed every minute that I was around him and he always knew how to bring a smile to my face. I will always remember him as a great pilot and friend.

August 20, 2010

Mr, Suarez i am deeply sorry for your loss, Gabe was a really good person,

James Fryn

The De Luca's

August 20, 2010

Suarez Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. We remember Gabriel from Sacred Heart School. He had the best smile. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers and look for the new star in the skies above. God Bless,

August 20, 2010

We share in the sorrow of your loss, and also in the joy of knowing, without a doubt, Gabe has gone home to his reward.
Love, Ken and Barbara

ernesto rodriguez

August 20, 2010

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2010

Chike Williams

August 20, 2010

Vic,

You and Gloria maintain your faith and continue to celebrate and remember Gabriel's life. I can only imagine the type of young man he was from the short time I spent with his father. Julie and I pray for your strength during the tough moments ahead.

Love, Chike

Seth Griffin

August 19, 2010

Dear Suarez family,

Gabe was a good friend of mine at DWC. The years I had the privilege to know him at school were filled with many laughs, great flights, and an even greater friendship that many others shared with me. He truly is and will be missed as both a genuine friend and an exceptional pilot.

Rita and Michael Baumann

August 19, 2010

Dear Vic and Glo and Family,
We remember Gabe as a young boy - sweet, smart, and so intelligent! We know you will miss him beyond words. Hold your son Gabriel (with the name of an angel) in your hearts, as we know Jesus is holding you now. We pray for you daily, and send love and abrazos.

Seth Griffin

August 19, 2010

Dear Suarez family,

Gabe was a good friend of mine at DWC. The years I had the privilege to know him were filled with many laughs, great flights, and an even greater friendship that many others shared with me. He truly is and will be missed as both a genuine friend and an exceptional pilot.

Brenda Tsuda

August 19, 2010

Vic and Gloria,
I only had the opportunity to really meet Gabe once - the 1st SF Mother/Son dance. What a wonderful young man he was. Our prayers and deepest condolences for your family and may you find comfort that Gabe now has his own set of 'wings'. With Love, Brenda, Dale & Ryan

Valerie Garcia

August 19, 2010

Vic, Gloria and family:
We were always miles away from the family, but I enjoyed spending time with both of you and Gabe in VA. You did not need to spend a lot of time with him to know how great of a person he was. He shined!
I wish we could be there with you and your family to celebrate the life of Gabe. We are thinking of you today and always.
Every time I see a plane I think of Gabe and smile, he has his wings!
With all our love, Valerie and Kyle.

Joe Boenzi

August 19, 2010

Dear Gloria and Vic:

My deepest sympathies with a pledge of prayer - that Gabriel may be enjoying boundless light and that you and your whole family may know the deepest consolations.

August 19, 2010

Our love and prayers are with the beloved Suarez family. Bill and Marge Kueneman

Phil Garcia

August 19, 2010

Gabe, we watched you grow through a joyous childhood to become an impressive, generous man. You beautifully touched lives wherever you went with your giving spirit. We're so proud of every step you made as you navigated through life. You've accomplished so much in this lifetime. Heaven is luck to have you. We miss you. Love, Aunt Joanne and Uncle Phil, cousins Mari and Kana

Lauren Zachmeier

August 19, 2010

Mr. And Mrs. Suarez-
Gabe was such a wonderful person. When I first transferred to St. Francis, I remember him being one of the first people to introduce himself and make me feel welcomed to the school. Even though I only got to be in classes with him for a year and a half instead of all four, I truly admired his intelligence and passion. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, and our class of 2007 as well as all St. Francis alumni will always have a special place for him in our hearts. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Alexis Faria

August 19, 2010

Vic and Gloria,
We were so sad to hear about Gabriel. Our hearts breaks for you. Just remember love NEVER dies. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Alexis & Manuel Faria & family

Ryan Wangerin

August 19, 2010

Mr. and Mrs. Suarez,

I knew Gabe fairly well through the many classes we took together at DWC. Last spring during Physics II, I had the pleasure of being lab partners with your son. When I struggled to grasp some of the concepts, Gabe was always there to help. I am sure I tested his patience many times, though he never showed it once. Even after class he would make it a point to talk while we walked to our next destination.

The flight center can be stressful at times, but Gabe always seemed to brighten the place up when he worked dispatch. You just knew it was going to be a good day if you walked through the doors and he was there. I remember after one particular approach into Nashua, Gabe made an effort to tell me how good it looked from the ground. Gabe knew I botched the heck out of it. However, he also knew that even a couple of positive words could change someone’s entire day.

Gabe was an extraordinary person who set the bar among his peers. I am thankful for the time I was able to spend with him and will cherish the impact that he made on my life forever. My thoughts and prayers are with you both.

The Abercrombie's

August 19, 2010

We were very saddened to hear the news of Gabriel's accident. I can remember his days at Sacred Heart Catholic School. He had a generous heart and a wonderful smile.

Cindy, Bob & Kimberly Renteria

August 19, 2010

Dear Gloria and Vic,
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this very sorrowful time.

sharyn simmons

August 19, 2010

Dear Gloria And Vic
My heart knows your loss. Please know I am praying for you at this time. So sorry.
love sharyn simmons

Linda Wolfe

August 19, 2010

Gloria and Vic, I'm at a loss for words on the loss of your beloved son. Although I never met Gabriel, I remember well how much love was involved in his creation. Please accept my heartfelt sympathy and prayers for God's comfort for you at this time

Martha & Fernando Garcia

August 19, 2010

Vic, Glo, Aaron & Brandon: Gabe was so excited after he toured the flight school while still in high school. We looked forward to the day when we could book a flight on an airline and Gabe would be our pilot. No particular city - just to see Gabe in the cockpit preparing for take-off and waiting to hear his voice on the intercom welcoming the passengers. We'll think of Gabriel with pride and a heavy heart, whenever we board a plane and look towards the cockpit.

Don, Judy, Matt, Mitch & Mac Soper

August 18, 2010

To the Suarez Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this very sad time. We remember when and the joy of his first flight. He fell in love that day. We will forever look to the skies and see Gabe flying by with that infectious smile and watchful eye. He was such a wonderful young man. We are so saddened by your loss. With much love and prayers.

August 18, 2010

Vic & Gloria, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I know you will always miss him. Doesn't even sound possible that he was as old as he was. I'll be thinking of you. Barbara Forsyth Mohler

Jennifer Fleming-Brown

August 18, 2010

Vic and Gloria,
My heartfelt condolences to you and your family, I can't imagine the hearbreak you're feeling at this time. I pray you find comfort in the joyful memories you have and peace in knowing Gabe is with our Heavenly Father.

August 18, 2010

Vic and Gloria, it was a pleasure to meet and get to know Gabriel spending a day with him in Miami. It truly was a beautiful day that I will always remember with fond and warm memories. My prayers and thoughts are with you and yours. You were all blessed with Gabriel. Remember the promise, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die." Also remember during these difficult times God’s promise, “I am with you always.” God knows what you’re going through. My sincerest sympathy for your loss. Debbie Sales, Plantation, Florida

Fr. Vince Cotter

August 18, 2010

Vic and Glo, how I wish I knew your son. He sounds so wonderfully gifted - God bless him! Do know of my thoughts and prayers for you at this time. Fr. Vince Cotter

Melanie Redman

August 18, 2010

We are so sorry for your loss. We are good friends of Bryan and it is comforting to know they were not alone but with one another. I think they are both up there now with their golden wings and caring for us all. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all in this great time of grief. Their wonderful lives will live on as joy in our hearts from known their kind souls. Bless you all, Melanie and Becca

2ndLt Chester Stefanowicz, USMC

August 18, 2010

To Gabriel's Family,
I didn't know Gabe well, but I did train him when he worked for DWC Flight Operations. He was one of the most dependable and motivated guys on the crew. I'm saddened to learn of your loss and my prayers are with you.

Frank Alves & Family

August 18, 2010

Vic and Glo-
We are with you always at this so sad time and we pray that our prayers will give you comfort.
With much live to your family.

Andrew Sievert

August 18, 2010

Mr. and Mrs. Suarez:

I only met Gabe in passing once or twice at Daniel Webster, but he was very upbeat and kind. I wish I had had a better chance to spend time with him, but I know that he brought smiles to the people he was with. I'm sorry for your loss, and I pray that Gabe watches over you all from on high.

Sincerely,
Andrew "Andy" Sievert

August 18, 2010

Mr. and Mrs. Suarez: Gabe was a student of mine in at Daniel Webster College. He was a wonderful young man and an outstanding addition to our classroom. Gabe had a flair for creativity and humor which we all appreciated. He will be missed so very much.
Thank you for sharing Gabe with me and the students. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Lucille DiCicco

Gabriella Ferraro

August 18, 2010

To Gabriel and his family - my prayers are with you ! Gabriel was an extraordinary person. May his soul rest in peace.

Jessica Costa

August 18, 2010

Vic and Family,
Please accept my heartfelt sympathy for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Mary Ann Salinovich

August 18, 2010

Vic and Gloria, I am deeply saddened by your loss, I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Holy Eucharist is a special parish that I love and my twins were baptized there years ago. Love and God Bless,
Bob and Mary Ann Salinovich

Nancy (Dolciamore) Beckman

August 18, 2010

Vic and Gloria, I am deeply sorry for your loss.

Janet Banuelos

August 18, 2010

Vic and Glo, words cannot express the heartfelt sorrow we feel for you and your family. Sacred Heart School has such fond memories of Gabriel, the kid who ALWAYS wore shorts. Our prayers are with you.

Chris Reynolds

August 17, 2010

To Gabriel, I cannot find words to explain how much you meant to so many. Like your mom said, you were an angel sent to be among us for a short time! I can't wait to see you again!

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