Gilbert A. Salas

Gil Salas (Gilbert) passed away peacefully on Thursday May 6, 2021 surrounded by family in Benicia, CA. Born May 21, 1936 in a flat South of Market on Clara Alley in San Francisco to Jesus and Concha. A resident of Alameda for the past 23 years, most recently at Cardinal Point Retirement Community.

He is the loving father of Christopher (Mikki), Paula (Jorge), Brian (Jody), Kevin (Rachael) and Lesli (Brenden). Beloved Grandfather to Chloe, Elora, Evan, Olivia, Hannah, Benjamin, Ava, Amara, Rowan and Quinn.

He is survived by former wife, Marilyn, his sisters Alice and Jimelina, sister-in-law Patricia and dear friend Regina. Beloved Uncle to his many nephews and nieces. Preceded in death by siblings, Rosario, Raymond, Ralph, Ruben, Tony David and Eleanor.

Gil was educated at Saint Patrick’s Grammar School and though admitted to both catholic high schools at the time, he had the good sense to choose Sacred Heart, graduating in 1954 as class president.  He had many lifelong friends, whom he referred to as, “The Usual Suspects”. Gil was a Niner season ticket holder from the early days at Kezar Stadium. After high school he joined the United States Marine Corps, worked for the U.S. Postal Service, retired from A.M. Castle and UCSF. He earned a degree from St. Mary’s College in 1982 at the age of 45.

His favorite memory from Old San Francisco was enjoying a martini and a cigarette at the Blackhawk Jazz Club on Turk St and watching the Greats - Miles, Ella, Brubeck.

Gil spent fifty years of his life devoted to the people and principles of Alcoholics Anonymous. He served on many community and church boards and coached youth basketball and baseball. He was grateful for his ministry at San Quentin State Prison, Meals on Wheels, and St. Vincent De Paul.

Gil was a great dancer and loved to dance Zydeco every week at the Eagle’s Club in Alameda, often dancing till the band left the stage.

Gil was kind, gentle and caring. He was a devoted father and a well-regarded friend - he seemed to know someone wherever he went – whether around town or on another continent. He was a mentor, teacher, faithful servant, believer. A devoted Christian, he looked forward to going home to The Lord. He will be missed, but his light will shine on.

Donations in lieu of flowers to

Alameda County Meals

https://www.feedingseniors.org/givetoday

Wheels or St. Vincent de Paul Society.

https://www.svdp-alameda.org/donate.html

Family and friends are invited to the Visitation from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. and Vigil Service on Thursday, May 20, 2021 at 4:00 p.m. at Greer Family Mortuary and Cremation Services, 2694 Blanding Ave., Alameda,  and the Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, May 21, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. at St. Joseph's Basilica, 1109 Chestnut St., Alameda.

Family and friends who are unable to attend the Vigil Service in person are invited to virtually attend on Thursday, May 20, 2021 at 4:00 p.m.

https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/

Event Email:  wecare@greermortuary.com

Password: YASXIG

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