Obituary of Gilberto Alaniz

Gilberto "Gilbert" Alaniz Jr. "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4:7 Edinburg- Gilberto "Gilbert" Alaniz won his last fight and went to be with our Lord on Wednesday, May 31st, his loving and faithful wife of 46 years, Janie, by his side. Gilbert was born and raised in Edinburg and learned the lessons of hard work and perseverance early in life following the death of his father at two years old. If anyone personified the concept of hard work and responsibility it was Gilbert. When he was only 13 years old he began working in the fields and for Castillo Plumbing. Despite the need to provide for his mother and sisters from such a young age, Gilbert was still able to become a Golden Gloves boxer and graduate from Edinburg High in 1967. He loved the outdoors, and cherished his time spent hunting, fishing, and horseback riding. After 35 years of service at International Paper and Weyerhaeuser Company, and many previous years of tireless hard work, Gilbert was finally able to retire and dedicate the rest of his days to his family, ranch, and church. He derived great joy from his church, Life Ministries Church in Edinburg, where he served as a deacon, board member, and head usher. Gilbert's proudest and greatest moment was when he gave his life to the Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Gilbert was preceded in death by his parents; Gilberto Sr and Isaura Alaniz, and sisters; Gloria Contreras, and Sylvia Urbina. Survivors are the love of his life, Janie Alaniz; sons: Gilbert "Sonny" Alaniz III (Sonia) from Bastrop, TX; Lucas Alaniz (Lauren) from New Braunfels, TX; and Ricco Alaniz (Heather) from San Marcos, TX. Also included are his grandchildren- his treasures- who all dearly loved their Papa/Grandpa: Aydin, Samara, Isabella, Lily, Sienna, Noelle, Isaac, and Mary. Sister Elena Cassidy and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and friends also consider themselves blessed to have had Gilbert in their lives. Many will remember Gilbert for the hugs he gave, his warm greetings, humor, kind words, and freely given care. He loved helping others and only ever asked in return that they pass on the blessing. We are all so very thankful for the years filled with laughter and love that we have had with him. The family would like to extend particular thanks to Dr. Monzer Yazji for his excellent care and friendship over the past 23 years as well as to the staff of Amara Hospice for their service in Gilbert's final weeks. Visitation will be from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. with a 5 p.m. chapel service on Saturday, June 3, 2017, at Legacy Chapels 4610 S. Jackson Rd in Edinburg. Reception to follow. Cremation will take place at a later date. Funeral Services are under the direction of Legacy Chapels in Edinburg.