Gilbert Tovar

Gilbert Tovar, a lifelong resident of Watsonville, died on July 2, 2023. He was 62.

Gilbert, known as "Hot Dog", to his many friends, was born on June 9, 1961 in Watsonville. He attended local elementary and middle schools and graduated from Andrew Hill High School in San Jose.

After high school, he worked in a variety of local businesses such as JM Smucker's where he would be employed for 26 years. Falcon Trading Co., where he earned his certification as an ammonia refrigeration technician, and Pacific Rim Fishery.

He enjoyed coin collecting, listening to Oldies, writing poems, and cooking for his family. He was a talented handyman and put his talents on display building fences, and staining wood floors and cabinetry. He was an avid Dallas Cowboys, SF Giants, LA Lakers, and boxing fan. Above all, Gilbert loved spending time with his family, especially his beloved grandchildren.

Gilbert is survived by his loving wife of 13 years, Teresa Gill-Tovar; his children Monica Gill, Isabel, and Frank Tovar; and his parents, Ramiro and Frances Tovar. He also leaves behind his siblings, Carlos, Sylvia, Gary, Raul, and Stephanie Tovar; and 6 grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and aunts. He was preceded in death by his brother Robert "Bobby" Tovar, and uncles Roy Tovar, and Frank Tovarez.

Visitation will be held at Mehl's Colonial Chapel on Saturday, July 15th from 12pm to 4pm. In lieu of flowers, you may make a donation in Gilbert's name to the Santa Cruz Animal Shelter (1001 Rodriguez Street, Santa Cruz, CA. 95062).

Mehl's Colonial Chapel was entrusted with the funeral arrangements.

Published in The Pajaronian · July 13, 2023