Gilbert passed away at home in Blythe, California on August 16th, 2023. He was born on February 27, 1934 to Thomas Guilin Sr. and Piedad Agripina Gutierrez in Calexico, CA. He was the third born of their six children. Gilbert was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 68 years, Frances Bachelier Guilin, by his parents, Thomas and Piedad Guilin, sons Francisco and Mario Guilin, great grand-daughter Faith Frances Anderson, sister, Teresa Ybarra and brothers Tomas Jr., Pete, and Alexander Sr. Guilin.
Gilbert is survived by his sister Carlota Guilin, children, Eleanor (Joe), Rosalie (Larry), Gilbert (Rosy), Robert (Alice), Jerry (Sophie), Chris and Sabrina Guilin. He had 17 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren, one great great-grandchild, numerous nephews, nieces, and pet schnauzer GiGi, who all loved him very much.
Gilbert attended school at Palo Verde High School and Palo Verde Community College in Blythe, CA. He was a stellar athlete. In 1953 he met his “love of his life,” a Nogales High School Majorette, Frances Bachelier who was visiting Blythe to perform in a local parade. Gilbert would go visit Frances in Nogales, but on one trip, he said he was not coming back, so Frances left with him, and they got married in Quartzsite on their trip back to Blythe. Together Gilbert and Frances had nine children and raised them on Ash Street in Blythe. His generous home was where friends and relatives were welcomed and gathered for family events and barbecues.
Following the footsteps of his father, Gilbert worked in agriculture. It became a lifetime living. From irrigating at age 13, driving tractors, packing melons, working for the Desert Verde Company, approximately 20 years and later progressing to a certified PCA. In the late 70’s he partnered in a fertilizer business, “Tierra Verde.” He successfully serviced local farmer’s fields, both in the Palo Verde Valley and La Paz County. Years later, with his wife Frances, together they started another business, “GG Guilin Ranches”, to become a productive grower. During this era, he leased approximately 2500 acres to farm cotton, alfalfa, melons, corn, broccoli, squash, and onions. “G.G. Guilin Ranches,” faced tough business obstacles but managed to revive towards success. He was quoted, “Currently we are active farmers and even though we see no end we envision someday retiring. It has been a gratifying way of life.”
As a hobby he raised Black Angus and grew date trees at his “North Spoon Ranch.”
He worked beyond the age 81 years old, until he was forced to retire because of decline in health. For eight years, he was fortunate to have his children and the best caregivers until the end of his life.
Gilbert left a legacy as a strict father, a loyal friend, very successful farmer, a valued hard worker, driven with strength, and a mentor to his children, grandchildren, nephews, and friends.
He will be greatly missed by all who loved him.
Thank you for all your condolences and sympathy during this time.
Memorial services for Gilbert will be held on Friday, October 6th at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church with Rosary at 9 Am, followed by speaker time and Mass at 10 AM.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.17