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DUARTE, GILBERT MADERO born July 30, 1946 in Patagonia, AZ, deceased March 18, 2016. Gilbert is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Martha and his children, Gilbert Ray (Trisha), Vincent Edward (Danielle), Denise Ann and Mark Anthony and adoptive son, Ronny Nijessen. He was a dedicated grandfather to Diego, Vince, Roman, Camille, Anessia and Mark Jr. Preceded in death by his parents, Luis and Rosa Duarte and siblings, Bernadine (Dave Oltman) and Tommy Duarte. Brother of Luis Duarte (Rita), Lydia Aponte (Luis), Connie Kubilus, Lucy Guerrero; sister-in-law, Connie Duarte, and special brother from another mother, Art Bustamante. Gilbert was loved and respected by numerous nieces and nephews and a multitude of friends. Gilbert graduated from Tucson High School and retired from Southwest Gas after an illustrious career of 37 years, wining many safety awards and saving lives. An Army veteran and survivor of the Vietnam War, he continued his commitment to country by volunteering at the Tucson Veterans Hospital. He was also active for many years in the Tucson Youth Soccer association as coach and referee. Known as the luckiest golfer, he scored TWO separate holes in one. Also, Gilbert was a faithful and emotional Wildcat fan for over 50 years - tailgating and game days won't be the same. Memorial Mass to be held Wednesday, March 23, 2016, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Cyril's Church, 4725 E. Pima, Tucson, AZ. Donations can be made to: Tucson VA's Southwestern Blind Rehabilitation Center. Arrangements by EAST LAWN PALMS MORTUARY.
Published in the Arizona Daily Star on Mar. 22, 2016
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