Gilbert Gusman, born on May 21, 1938 in Oxnard, California passed away peacefully on September 28, 2023 in Littleton, Colorado. He was 85 years old.

Gilbert was curious and bold and unapologetically himself. He had a wonderful sense of humor that bordered on the dark and he had his loved ones cracking up until his very last days. 

He is survived by his beloved wife of over 30 years, Virginia Romero, his two daughters Lisa Gusman Maestas (Rich) and Deanna Gusman. Gilbert leaves a legacy of 5 grandchildren, Morgan Maestas, Grant Maestas, Chris Maestas, Hannah Gusman Walker and Luisa Walker.

Gilbert’s mother passed away when he was only four-years-old. He was raised by his grandparents, Cesaria and Augustine Rios, in Colorado. He spent most of his childhood in Globeville, attended Horace Mann Junior High and then Manual High School. As a teenager, he worked in a bakery, cleared trails with dynamite at Yosemite National Park, and then joined the army at age 18. 

Military service provided Gilbert with much joy and he would speak fondly of his adventures - ranging from his enjoyable travels in Paris and Germany to the 25 thrilling times he jumped from an aircraft as a paratrooper.  Military service also provided him the opportunity to learn how to operate a printing press and he worked in the printing trade for a number of years. After stints in Germany and New Rochelle, New York, he was discharged in Brooklyn, New York which would mark the beginning of his life long love of New York City, particularly the city life, music and jazz scenes that he so much enjoyed.

After Gilbert explored all over Europe, he settled back in Colorado and met and married his first wife Lupita Gurule with whom he fathered two daughters. Lupita and Gilbert divorced in 1976; his daughters have fond memories of spending time with him on the weekends which often included going to his favorite lunch buffets, swimming in the pool at his apartment, and listening to his jazz records. He was always a loving and kind father.

In midlife he married Virginia Romero and they spent many loving years together. Virginia lovingly tended to his care when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2021 up until his last two weeks of life. They created a long and loving life together, enjoying karaoke and spending time at the VFW as well as spending time with Virginia’s extended family, grandchildren and with the many friends they had made over a long life together.

Gilbert asked that we honor his wishes to not have any services. He was surrounded by those closest to him in his final days. He will be deeply missed, his memory will be a blessing.