Gilberto Reyes

Gilberto Armando Reyes Brathwaite, known to his loved ones as Berto, came into this world on November 12, 1960. He was born to the proud parents, Romulo Gilberto Reyes and Shirley Loreta Brathwaite. As a devout Catholic, Berto's life was guided by his faith, and he was christened GILBERTO ARMANDO REYES BRATHWAITE.

Throughout his life, Berto left behind a remarkable legacy of love, kindness, and generosity. From his early days at the SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST SCHOOL to his graduation from ARTES Y OFICIOS with a degree in Body and Fender Repair, Berto's passion for cars was evident. It all began at the age of 12 when he first learned to change a tire. No force could keep him away from the car workshop, or as they call it in Panama, "taller." For Berto, the order of priorities was clear: school, taller, and home. However, his mother Shirley had bigger dreams for him and encouraged him to migrate to the United States in 1982. Berto listened to her advice and embarked on this new chapter alongside his brother Reynaldo "Chino."

Their journey led them to the Ft Hood area in Texas where they settled briefly in Harker Heights with their sister Alicia. Eventually, Gilberto found himself making a home in Monterey, California before finally setting roots in San Jose.

Berto was truly a gentle giant whose presence stood tall within our hearts like an ancient tree in the forest. His kind soul had a way of expressing love that didn't always feel kind; it came in the form of correction and guidance towards the bigger picture. We embraced this unique aspect of his character and basked in the love that this gentle giant had to offer.

As an avid sports fan, Berto adored the 49ers, but his love for Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors knew no bounds. He followed their every game with enthusiasm and couldn't resist joking about suiting up to help them win.

Berto's impact extended beyond his immediate family. He contributed to the education of many nieces and nephews, investing in their future and watching proudly as they blossomed into accomplished adults. He was a cherished son, brother, father, and friend who enjoyed being surrounded by loved ones. Berto actively participated in various local organizations, including his Panamanian cultural society and the esteemed "Folklore Panama Lindo." With a passion for culinary arts, he proudly served as a renowned cook at establishments like the Clint Eastwood restaurant and the Monterey Beach Hotel in Monterey, California. His dedication to excellence also traversed into his professional life at Fujitsu and later Applied Material where he retired from Logistics.

Now that our great tree has fallen, we find solace in the words of Maya Angelou: "When a great soul dies, the air around us becomes light; rare. We breathe, briefly. Our knees buckle and eyes water; we retain our memories sharper than knives." Although the world may feel different without Berto's presence, we will remember all those moments we wished to share but never got around to. We will find ourselves again and hold onto the knowledge that Berto existed so that we could be better versions of ourselves.

Gilberto Armando Reyes Brathwaite will find eternal rest alongside his father Romulo Gilberto Reyes Tejada, his brother Ricardo Reyes-Chambers, various Reyes aunts and uncles, Brathwaite aunt and uncle Virgina Davidson and Kenneth Brathwaite Jr., grandparents from both sides of his family, and cousin Hermelinda Hinds.

He is survived by his daughter Tamara Reyes (ss) Antonio Amaro (Madeline Gardiner), grandson Mason Rodriguez, mother Shirley Brathwaite de Reyes, uncle Desmond Brathwaite, aunt Pauline Mullings, siblings Alicia Brathwaite Cook (Ishmael), Reinaldo Reyes (Judith), Mario Reyes (Leika), Reina Davis (previously departed Haynes Davis), Casandra Reyes-King (Terrell), and Debora Reyes (Enrique Stephen).

Berto also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews: Damara Reyes-Chambers, Josefina Brown (Anthony), Jammal Reyes, Jermaine Cook, Reinaldo Jr., Reinaldo II, Jefrey, Karina Reyes, Mario A., Joel A., Lessibel, Johanel A. Reyes, Alex Bethancourt (Kissis), Waldron Archer, Keelson Engles, Keitshia L. Guevarra (Anthony), Dennis and Darlene Olaciregui.

He will be dearly missed by his grandnephews and grandnieces: Avione McGhee, Mauricio Cook, Alanys, Kicianys, Kelly and Kathleen Bethancourt; Anthony Jr. and Kendrick Guevarra; Jaden Olacirequi.

Beyond his immediate family, Berto leaves behind countless cousins and extended family members who held a special place in his heart. He also created lifelong friendships that will cherish his memory forever.

In the wake of his departure from this mortal coil on Christmas Eve, Gilberto Armando Reyes Brathwaite has left an indelible mark on our lives. May he find eternal peace as we keep his spirit alive in our hearts.