In loving memory of Gabriel Zaragoza

Gabriel Zaragoza, 84, of Fresno, CA passed away surrounded by his loved ones on January 2nd, 2021.

Gabriel was born on January 19, 1936 to Concepcion and Nellie Zaragoza in Fresno, Ca.

Gabriel landed his first job as an Unemployment Specialist for the Employment Development Department (EDD) for 30 years.  After retiring from the EDD he started a second career as a Raisin Inspector for 20 years at the USDA in Selma, Ca.

In 1956, Gabriel met Josephine Davila, and they fell in love instantly and were lifelong partners for 63 years.  They wed in 1957, going on to have 6 children, Gabriel Jr., Gary, George, Gregory, Patricia and Anita.

Gabriel was a force of nature, determined to provide for his family and give them the life he felt they deserved. His family meant more to him than anything else in the world, something he often mentioned. He was unendingly proud of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, and his loving wife Josephine and always did his best to support them.

Gabriel had an immense passion for gardening and could often be found outside mowing, edging and planting and trimming his trees.   Always taking care of his yard.

Anyone who knew Gabriel knew that he was the most kind, loving, caring, warm, brilliant, and wonderful father, papa, old papa and husband a family could ask for.   Gabriel was preceded in death by his youngest son Gregory and his beautiful daughter Anita (his baby girl).

Gabriel's family and friends will miss him more than words can say.

A Fallen Limb

A limb has fallen from the family tree.
I keep hearing a voice that says,
"Grieve not for me."

Remember the best times, the laughter, the songs.
The good life I lived while I was strong.

Continue my heritage, I'm counting on you.
Keep smiling and surely
the sun will shine through.

My mind is at ease, my soul is at rest.
Remembering all…. how I truly was blessed.

Continue traditions, no matter how small.
Go on with your life,
don't worry about falls.

I miss you all dearly, so keep up your chin.
Until the day comes, we're together again."
– Author Unknown