Gabriel Jimenez
Age - 98
December 7, 2023
Our Father, Gabriel Jimenez, was born on March 18, 1925, in Bena, California. His parents, Hilaria Trujillo Jimenez, and Ysabel Araujo Jimenez were both of Native American decent, with Ysabel being full blooded Navajo. During his childhood dad attended DiGiorgio (aka Rockpile) Elementary School in Arvin and Mountain View Middle School outside of Lamont. He attended Bakersfield High School but had to leave to help support his family when his father became ill and later passed away in January of 1939. He knew then that his efforts would focus on helping and contributing to the family financially.
As a teenager, during the late 1930's, dad had a job with a traveling sheep shearing company. He told stories of how they traveled throughout California to various ranches, with many in isolated locations, and sleeping under the stars.
Dad joined the US Army in June of 1943 and was stationed at Camp Roberts where he completed his Field Artillery Training. Although he was looking forward to serving his country, dad accepted an Honorable Discharge in November of the same year, due to a medical condition.
In 1951, dad married the love of his life, Herminia "Minnie" Aguilar from Shafter. This was the beginning of a 58-year love story. Dad and mom had a very loving, caring relationship. They loved doing things together and supported strong bonds with family and friends. Dad and mom purchased a house on Height Street in East Bakersfield that dad called home for 71 years. There, they provided a safe, stable, and loving environment for their five children. Today, that house is still that safe, secure, heartwarming place considered "home. " So many precious memories.
Although dad held a variety of jobs, he eventually found a job at Kern County Equipment Company in Bakersfield. There he taught himself to spray paint and soon became their lead painter. He prepared and painted various International Harvester farm equipment. His specialty was the old cotton picker. Dad would often speak of the many farmers that would call and request his services. His name was well known as the individual that could make an old piece of equipment look like new. He invested a great deal of time, effort, and attention into his craft and was proud of the jobs well done. He remained there for 35 years. Dad also made extra money painting cars. He used the same sense of perfection to give those vehicles a renewed look and beautiful shine.
Dad was a devout Catholic and belonged to the parish at San Clemente Mission. He was an active member for years and developed many long-lasting relationships. During church carnivals, dad and mom would work his Ring Toss booth for hours, which gave them the opportunity to get to know the kids. To this day, those kids, now adults, always reflect and remember how fun and how generous dad and mom were. It is such a great feeling to hear the appreciation and praise given them. Those were the times that they enjoyed. Getting out and interacting with the community.
Dad was also proud to be a member of The Young Men's Institute (YMI) Council 100. He joined at the age of seventeen and was a member for 81 years.
Sadly, we lost our dad, at the age of 98, on November 19, 2023, in Henderson, Nevada. Dad was preceded in death by his wife Herminia who passed away in 2009, sisters Luz Ramos, Dominga Sanchez, Sally Ruiz, and brother Victor Jimenes. He is survived by daughters, Lorraine Orozco, Rachel Vespe, Carmen Perez, and Ann (Baby) Jimenez, and son, Joseph Jimenez. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, grandchildren, great and great- great grandchildren.
Dad was a loving, caring, giving, soul. He lived a long, robust life, touched the hearts of many, and in return received much love, respect, and admiration. Dad loved to travel, loved his Mariachi and Country music, his Western Movies and John Wayne, as well as his cat, "Sister," who kept him company during his later years and whom he called "his little girl. " He was a family man who cherished his children, family, and friends. Dad was an amazing individual. A great man who will be dearly missed. Although he is no longer with us physically, dad will forever be with us in spirit and will hold that special place in our hearts, minds, and souls.
We love you Dad - Rest in Peace
The Viewing and Rosary will be held on Tuesday, December 12, from 5 - 8 PM at Greenlawn Cemetery and Funeral Home Northeast, located at 3700 River Blvd, Bakersfield, California. The Rosary will begin at 6 PM.
Mass will be held at 10 AM on Wednesday, December 13, at San Clemente Mission Parrish, located at 1305 Water Street, Bakersfield, California. Following the mass there will be a funeral procession to Greenlawn Cemetery for the gravesite ceremony.Show more
.png){kind=small}
.png){kind=small}
