Gilbert, the youngest of 9 children, was born in La Junta, Colorado on August 14, 1947 to Esequiel and Fidelia Cordova. Tragically, he lost his mother at the age of 2 and was admirably raised by his sister Aurelia, a mere child herself. Tenderly doted upon by each and every one of his sisters, all under the watchful eyes of his older brothers.
Gil proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1967 to 1970, married his wife Catherine in 1971, and in the same year began working at Eastman Kodak Company in Windsor, Colorado until he retired in 2003. Gil was determined and dedicated to making a better life and providing for his wife of 43 years and their two children. He put family first always, was the epitome of all a father should embody, and gave everything a father could give. He loved his grandchildren and great grandchildren immensely taking great pleasure in attending their events and activities.
Quite the jokester, Gil had a penchant for hijinks and shenanigans. He was known for telling ludicrous and absurdly funny stories evoking sidesplitting laughter. He enjoyed physical exercise, took long walks and had a passion for sports, especially basketball, passing down his love of the game to his son. A naturally gifted musician, Gil was equally adept at playing both the guitar and bass, sharing his love of music with his children who played and sang along with their father regularly up until the his final days. Gil had a rare quality for making people feel at ease, always had a smile on his face and an unshakable faith in Jesus Christ.
Gilbert is survived by his daughter, Charlotte Cordova (Bartley) Kinney; son, Greg (Victoria) Cordova; two granddaughters, Mandi (DJ) Lopez and SaVanna Hohnstein (Brandon) Erickson; two grandsons, Ezequiel “Zeke” Cordova and Trajan Cordova; two great grandchildren and one on the way, Brystle Rain Hohnstein, Landon Hohnstein and Baby Lopez; four sisters, Aurelia (Manuel) Romero, Linda Rodaway, MaryAnn (Edward) Jaure and Virginia (Ben) Martinez; two brothers, Ernest Cordova and Augustine (Molly) Cordova and dozens of nieces and nephews all of whom he loved dearly.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Catherine, his parents, Esequiel and Fidelia; his sister, Estelle and brother, Albert.
Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Thursday, November 18, 2021 followed by Recitation of the Rosary at 7:00 p.m. both at Stoddard Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, November 19, 2021 at St. Mary Catholic Church. Interment Sunset Memorial Gardens.
