Dear Father Gilbert Baumgardner Sanchez,

I have a history of being late and so I am late writing this, but I believe you knew my fondness for you!

I’m not sure when we met or even if it was before I met your sweet daughter Pam I just know that our meeting had something to do with music & dancing; two of the best things in life! Such fun it was to see you at many of the great places downtown and we’d share a table, talk and have fun listening to our favorite bands. I also remember one particular birthday of yours at Ventura’s Jazz venue that was one of your faves and it has grown on me a bit too thanks to you and Pam. One of your many admirers made you a pineapple upside down cake that was the bomb!! I will miss your welcoming smile and your warm hugs as you would always greet me with.

You made me smile with your warm smile, silliness, & sense of humor. I loved to greet you as “father” (following Pam’s lead) since it just felt appropriate. I enjoyed being part of dinner time, holidays, meeting at church occasionally, VenturaRocks events and other sweet times shared with you, your family and friends.

Our random texts just to say “hi” or “how are you” always made me smile too. Your contact information and happy photo always appeared on my phone and you were under Gilbert BAUMGARDNER in my contacts. I had to laugh several years and many texts or calls later when I realized that was not your last name…..DUH!!

You had a way with people and had many friends and admirers, not to mention the beautiful, strong, 3 amazing women in your life. I will miss you “father” and may you dance with angels and smile on us as we dance with your memory.