Gilbert P. Valdez was born February 4, 1930 in Nuevo Leon, Mexico to Rosendo & Aniceta (Pruneda) Valdez one of many children. He worked as a migrant in many states including Texas where he met Berta and they married in 1955. They moved to California in the late 1950's and in 1958 he bought his first truck. He worked as an owner/operator for 30 years and has been retired for the last 20 years. His family remembers him as always working, either as truck driver, collecting, gardening or helping others. He loved raising livestock and in addition to the pigs, cows, horses, sheep and goats he also raised unique animals, such as a peacock and ram, known for chasing the girls. He enjoyed his role as grandpa and loved spending time with his grandchildren. He was a member of St. Therese's Catholic Church. Gilbert was survived by his eight children; sons, Gilbert Valdez, Jr. & wife Pamela, Roy Valdez & wife Valerie, Leo Valdez, all of Bakersfield and Joel Valdez & wife Joanne of Colorado; daughters, Dalinda Gonzalez & husband Sergio, Sr. of Wasco, Lidia Mendoza & husband Rueben of Delano, Diana Deleon & husband Rey of McFarland, Norma Macias & husband Sam, Sr. of Shafter; 18 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren; and many loving brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews. His wife, Berta who passed away in 1993 and daughter Dalia Figueroa who passed away in 2005 preceded him in death. The family would like to thank Yolanda Prendez, Gilbert's loyal caregiver and friend for many years, for her care and compassion. Donations may be given to Shafter Community Chest. They held a special place in Gilbert's heart for the help they gave when Dalia passed away. Recitation of the Holy Rosary was held at Peters Funeral Home, Shafter on Thursday, January 11 at 6:30pm for Gilbert P. Valdez who passed away January 5 in Bakersfield attaining the age of 76 years. Mass of the Christian Burial was said Friday, January 12 at 10am at St. Therese's Catholic. Fr. Pedro Umana officiated the service and interment follow at Shafter Memorial Park. A visitation was held at Peters Funeral Home on Thursday, January 11 from 2pm - 8pm.