Gilbert Flores It

January  13th, 1980 January  15th, 2025
Gilbert Flores It

Gil the Thrill

Obituary

Whether you knew him as "Gil the Thrill," "The most interesting man in the world," or "Soldier of the Year," Gil lived a life that most could only dream of. From daring military missions to mischievous escapades with family and friends, his adventures were legendary. He accomplished more and lived a life richer in experiences than most of us ever will.

Growing up in the vibrant heart of South Central, Gil was a whirlwind of energy. He was a boisterous friend, a devoted family member, and a true animal lover. Gil's compassion for creatures knew no bounds. He'd rescue roosters from the brutal world of cockfighting, meticulously stitch their wounds, and even perform CPR on the injured birds. This compassion extended far beyond roosters. Over the years his home became a veritable zoo, filled with tortoises, peacocks, goats, and a seemingly endless parade of dogs.

While more focused on other pursuits than his studies at Pasadena City College, Gil's life took an unexpected turn when he was recruited to the military by Eli Arnold. This pivotal moment proved to be a defining point in his life. Gil thrived in the military environment, earning the prestigious 'Soldier of the Year' title an astonishing six times and receiving the Bronze Star for his heroism. His military exploits were legendary. Even while serving, Gil found ways to involve his loved ones. During his time stationed in Santa Barbara, he assembled a ragtag team of civilians – his brothers and his best friend – and led them to a decisive victory against other military units in their annual triathlon competition.

Although Gil’s initial academic pursuits may not have followed the traditional path, his time in the military and his experiences in Santa Barbara ignited a thirst for knowledge within him. This newfound drive led him to become the first in his family to graduate college. He pursued learning relentlessly, earning a string of degrees and certifications that reflected his lifelong commitment to growth. During his time at UC Santa Barbara, he not only excelled academically but also fostered camaraderie among his fellow servicemen by founding a surf club. Later, he dedicated himself to helping combat veterans, developing a specialized program at USC's social work department. Gil's academic journey was a truly global one, taking him from the classrooms of USC and UCSB to the prestigious halls of Oxford University and the vibrant streets of Spain.

Gil's passion for travel and adventure was infectious. He inspired countless friends and family to explore the world, whether it was a grand international journey or a simple camping trip in the backyard. His willingness to embrace new experiences was evident in everything he did, from chaperoning school field trips to joining loved ones for a mani-pedi. Gil truly lived life to the fullest, embracing every opportunity and encouraging others to do the same.

Gil's impact extended far beyond his own achievements. He lived life with an infectious zest, encouraging others to embrace every opportunity and live life to the fullest. Though we mourn his loss, we will cherish the memories of his laughter, his adventurous spirit, and the profound impact he had on our lives.

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Gallery

Memory wall

To help us celebrate his life, please share your favorite memories of Gil.


February 2, 2025
Gil's enthusiasm for everything brought out the best of everyone around him. Like so many others, I'm glad our paths crossed. See you again, brother.
Ron
January 31, 2025
Siempre en mi corazón mi gran amigo pasamos grandes momentos juntos y tú siempre con con tu sonrisa !!! Siempre estarás en mis recuerdos 🥰
Aida Macias
January 31, 2025
To know Gil is to love him. He is a sweet, kind, funny, loving, & generous soul, & this world is better because he was in it. He made it so easy to love him, & I’m sure anyone who knew him would agree. I will never forget all the beautiful memories I shared with Gilly. He never failed to make me laugh or lift my spirits when I was down. He was always so young at heart & never afraid to be silly. I still think of him every time I listen to The Doors or watch the movie. The way he would sing & impersonate Jim Morrison always brings a smile to my face. It’s a memory that will never fade.

I wish I would have gotten more time with Gil & stayed in touch—that’s one of my regrets. But I am eternally grateful to God for allowing me to have Gil in my life for the time that I did. I will carry him in my heart forever.

My heart and prayers are with the Flores family & all those who love him. His spirit is very much alive & he is always with you.

I know I’ll see you again soon, Gilly. I love you all the way to heaven.
Vanessa Sanchez
January 30, 2025
Sus vecinas en México. He built an amazing relationship with these ladies, he call them mom and they love him back like a son. Doña Bertha, doña Mary, doña Aida, doña Alicia, doña Virginia y doña María no está en la foto, pero es parte del grupo. Algunas fotos de sus compañeros también.
Gilberto Flores
January 28, 2025
Till Valhalla Gil. Thanks for the great memories. We love you.

FOUR AND A QUARTER!
MSG (Ret) Chuck Travers
January 28, 2025
My deepest condolences to Gil's entire family. He was a super special friend and brother in arms to me. I know he came from a great family and was raised to be the most kind, generous and caring person...he was a people person to the utmost. His strength and incredible personality came from deep in his heart and soul.

Gil was the most amazing person and a great Soldier. SGT Flores served with me in Iraq, 2004 and was the Soldier that held the team together in the toughest times we faced. I might have been the leader, but Gil had the enthusiasm, the skill, the....everything to make the team work. I can hear his voice, "Sir, we need to 'show' them we're the best..." He was the driving force to make our team the best team, or group of Soldiers that I have ever worked with. If the team was good, he made it great.
The picture is Gil and I at his first Triathlon that I roped him into...he said he didn't have a bike and couldn't swim. I just told him to show up with shoes and I would bring everything else he needed...he loved it and we had a great time.

My heart, like many others, is running on empty withot Gil....until we meet again.
Marc Chung
January 27, 2025
Love you always cousin.

Mabe
maribel llamas
January 25, 2025
Recuerdos de mi gilly
Angel
January 24, 2025
I will forever keep you and our catch up calls in my heart!! Your smile will forever be remembered and your loving heart will never be forgotten!! Since 97❤️
Stacey Lira
January 24, 2025
Rest in peace Gil. Love and miss ya bro. I’ll see you on the flip side. Til Valhalla!
Bryan Bailey
January 24, 2025
I’ll always cherish the memories of us, from the time we both lived in Arizona to our fun trip to Belize. You brought so much joy to those around you. I miss and love you always. - love, your half sister ! <3
Jessica Espinoza
January 24, 2025
Father and daughter ❤️
Aracely Jimenez
January 24, 2025
You are the father of my beautiful baby girl Sady❣️ Time was too short for the both of you. Thank you Gil for loving Sady with all your heart❣️ I am grateful for the time God gave you both, I wish it could have been longer. I send my condolences, and love to all of your family. 😔
Aracely Jimenez
January 24, 2025
Cada imagen, una gran historia...
Miriam Galvan
January 24, 2025
Gill Flores, a friend and fellow veteran of the 425th CA Bn passed away. I loved his personality, energy, work ethic and determination. His smile was contagious & I often smiled around him too. He attended UCSB & earned the same degree as me but we never had classes together because he was a few years younger than me. He was a physical fitness stud, always going for the 300 points. I felt we had a lot in common so I liked him a lot. In 2003, when 23 of us volunteered for Iraq, Gil told me he wouldn’t be joining us because he had been selected to attend a prestigious school in the United Kingdom through an exchange program. I was so proud and happy for him. When I returned from Iraq in 2004, I was so happy to see him, know he was well & he had accomplished a lot in his life while we were away. The photo is from late 2006. I had already moved to the 426th CA Bn. I was visiting Santa Barbara with my family and learned 425th members were holding a rucking, running & swimming competition at the beach. I love you Gil & I’ll see you heaven brother.
Jeong Ko
January 24, 2025
A special part of our extended family. We’ll miss you Gil. Here is a picture of Gil escorting Mariah during her Quinceniera.
Theresa Gonzalez
January 24, 2025
Siempre te recordaremos con esa sonrisa, te diste a querer en poco tiempo. Te queremos mucho Gioo
Hasta el cielo 🪽🪽
Mon Vazquez
January 24, 2025
Un gran ser humano. Con un corazón enorme
Que se ganó el cariño de todos los que tuvimos el honor de a verlo conocido 🙏🏻
Hector Vazquez Morales
January 24, 2025
Long Live Gill
Love You Primo!
Johnny Galvan
January 24, 2025
I miss you hermano!!
Claudia
January 24, 2025
Amiga, lamento profundamente la pérdida de tu primo Gilbert. Sé que no hay palabras suficientes para aliviar el dolor que tú y tu familia están sintiendo en este momento, pero quiero que sepan que estoy aquí para ustedes.

Mirando las fotos de Gilbert, veo que dejó una huella imborrable en la vida de quienes lo conocieron y su memoria siempre será un recordatorio de la luz que trajo al mundo. Espero que encuentren consuelo en los recuerdos hermosos que compartieron con él y en el amor de quienes los rodean.

Cuenten conmigo para lo que necesiten. Les envío mi más sincero abrazo y todas mis oraciones en este difícil momento.
Arturo Pedraza Martinez
January 24, 2025
Mi gran amigo, complice, hermano y compañero de aventuras...
My Favorite cousin ❤️
Miriam Galvan
January 24, 2025
My cousin my brother forever in my heart
Jesse Cabral
January 24, 2025
Amiga ciento mucho por lo que tu y familia Estan pasando y no alla palabras para tanto dorlor se que Dios lla lo tiene en su santa Gloria.
Josefina Schmiderer

Service


Join us in Celebration of Gil's Life

Viewing and Funeral Service Location:
St Andrews Church
311 N Raymond Ave, Pasadena, CA 91103

Viewing:
Thursday, January 30 from 2:30pm to 4:30pm

Funeral Service:
Friday, January 31 at 11:30am

Burial following the service:
San Gabriel Cemetery
601 W Roses Rd San Gabriel, CA 91775

Celebration of Life to follow:
Flores Home
596 Alberta St Altadena CA 91001
Location
St Andrews Church
311 N Raymond Ave, Pasadena, CA 91103
Date/time
Friday, January 31 at 11:30am
Virtual event
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