Gilberto Villalobos Elias, 84, passed away May 22, 2017 in Palm Springs, California.

Gilberto was born on December 21, 1932 in Sonora, Mexico to Alberto and Maria Elias. He was taken out of grade school at a very young age to start working and help contribute to his family. Being a 'provider' was instilled in Gilberto right from the beginning.

He came to the Palo Verde Valley in the early 1960's, working the majority of his life for Chairel Hay as a main Irrigator.

Gilberto was a loving father and grandfather. He was a compassionate man who took it upon himself to provide for those in need. He was always supportive of his family, near and far.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Efrain and his son Amado.

He is survived by his children, Roman Elias, Geraldo Elias, Dori (Mario) Baeza, Thomas (Tammy) Velarde, Yesenia (Jason) Noble and David (Ali) Elias; his lifetime companion, Nilsa Maria Colosio; 16 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; his siblings, Carmen, Cruz Elena and Maria Carmen; his loving caregivers Abby Amillano and Marcela Bracamontes; as well as many nieces, nephews and friends.

Services will be held on Friday, June 2, 2017 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Frye Chapel & Mortuary in Blythe.