Gilbert Martinez Cornejo passed away on March 1, 2023, at the age of 88.  He was born in Santa Maria, California, to Jose and Maria Cornejo on October 15, 1934.  Gilbert graduated from Lompoc Highschool in 1954, and after graduation, Gilbert served in the U.S Army.  Upon discharge Gilbert returned to Lompoc where he met the love of his life, Dolores at a Lompoc High football game. This is where their 64-year love story began.

Gilbert and Dolores were married in 1958, soon after they began raising a family, while he worked at John's Manville for 30 years. In 1978 Gilbert graduated from Chapman College, and he took great pride in earning a bachelor's degree while working full time and raising his children.

Gilbert enjoyed attending and watching sporting events.  He was an avid Rams and Dodger fan.  He could always be seen in the stands on Friday nights at his Lompoc Braves football games, with Dolores by his side.  As well as cheering on his grandchildren at their various sporting events.

Family was everything to Gilbert.  He was happy being surrounded by his children and grandchildren who loved him endlessly.  Gilbert's greatest accomplishment was his close and loving family that he and Dolores created.

Gilbert is survived by his wife of 64 years, Dolores. His children; Gilbert Jr. (Theresa), Lori Cornejo Morris, Teresa Terrones (Mike), Lisa Hernandez and Alicia Devlin (Miles). Gilbert is also survived by 18 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, and his brother Ruben Cornejo.  He was preceded in death by his parents Jose and Maria, and his grandson Ruben Hernandez.  As well as his siblings Cora Lopez, Rosie Valadez, Carmen Medina, Betty Alvarado, Joe Cornejo and Alice Contreras.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, March 9, 2023, at 4-8 pm with a vigil at 6 pm, at Starbuck-Lind Mortuary.  A funeral mass will be taking place on Friday March 10, 2023 at 10 am at La Purisima Catholic Church, graveside service to follow at Lompoc Evergreen Cemetery.