Gilbert J. Herrera

Gilbert J. Herrera

Gilbert J. Herrera, of Albuquerque, passed away peacefully at his home on April 27, 2021. He was born on January 13, 1929 to the late Enrique Abelino and Vivianita Herrera of Chili, NM. Gilbert is preceded in death by his loving wife Katie and loving daughter Vivian Herrera; sisters Susie Borrego and Amada Baros; brother Abelino Herrera Jr; nieces Karen and Lori Herrera; sister-in-law Pat Herrera; and brother-in-law Ursulo Borrego.

Gilbert is survived by his daughter Nancy and husband Warner Clow; son Bill Celevich; brothers Lorenzo Herrera (Socorro), John and Joseph Herrera; grandchildren, roomie and kindred spirit Gilbert Herrera (Miquella), Steve Herrera, Nick Herrera (Antoinette), Shandra Clow, Danielle Garcia (Tim); great-grandchildren, Joseph Herrera (Jackie), Mellanie Ammons, Alan Broome, Brianna Claytor (Christian), Cameron Herrera (Briana), Luke Pacheco, Karly Dela Cruz (Peter), Cody Garcia, Kaylie Archuleta; great-great grandchildren, Cruz and Viviana Herrera; and many other nephews, nieces, and loved ones, including his beloved fur baby, Juana.

Gilbert grew up in Chili, NM and spent his early career at Los Alamos National Laboratory before moving with wife Katie and family to California where he worked at Lockheed Martin. They relocated back to New Mexico where he retired as a machinist at SJS Machine Shop in Farmington, NM. Throughout his younger years, Gilbert constantly had various projects he worked on and no task was too difficult due to his practical and analytical way of thinking.

Gilbert was always thinking of others and never hesitated to lend a helping hand to whoever needed it. He was intelligent, hardworking and had a quiet humble demeanor that was admired by all. He always demonstrated patience, love, generosity, and understanding for his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Everyone knew he was there if they needed him. His steady presence was the anchor of the entire family. His non-judgmental guidance and constant support will be missed by his family. Gilbert lived life in a way that inspired and led by example. With a single look from him, you knew he truly loved you and was proud of you. Life will never be the same without him.

The family would like to extend their sincerest gratitude to the caring nurses and caregivers from PCM who cared for him in his final months as well as “Chop, Chop” (you know who you are). Special thanks to nurse and loyal friend Gary Palenschat, his sidekick.

A Mass will take place Friday, May 14, 2021 at 12:00 p.m. at Sacred Heart Church, 908 Calle Rosario, Espanola, NM. Everyone will be required to wear a mask and follow all COVID-19 guidelines. The church capacity will be a limit of 70 people. Burial will be at a later date.