Gilberto "Smiley" Gomez

Gilberto “Gib” Gomez, age 52, of Saginaw, passed away on March 1, 2026, surrounded by his closest family. In his final act of generosity, Gib gave the gift of life through organ donation, saving and improving the lives of many. Even in passing, his compassion and selflessness continue to live on in others.

Born on May 18, 1973, in Saginaw, Michigan, to Antonio and Jessica Gomez, Gib was a gifted chef who proudly served the community at the Log Cabin. His talents in the kitchen were widely known. To his family, he was the chef for every benefit, cookout, and celebration; if there was a gathering, Gib was on the grill. He built a reputation not only for incredible food, but for the heart behind it.

Gib had a deep passion for fishing, camping, and exploring with Erin and “The Boys.” He enjoyed playing darts and disc golf, was an avid fan of classic rock ’n’ roll and attending concerts, and was famous for his dance moves—The Running Man, The Worm, and The Robot. He also loved binge-watching HGTV, preparing for the yearly appetizer competition, and cheering on his beloved Detroit Lions, proudly winning two fantasy football leagues this year.

Above all, Gib was the heart of his family. Known for his beautiful smile, infectious laughter, and childhood nickname “Smiley,” he brought light and comfort to everyone he met. He was a constant, loving presence who showed up for anyone in need and treated many as his own brothers and sisters. His greatest joy came from his children and grandchildren, for whom he traveled across the state to attend every event with unmistakable pride.

He was preceded in death by his father, Antonio Gomez, and his brother, Bennito Gomez. Gib is survived by his loving partner and fiancée, Erin Breternitz; his children, Gilbert (Susana Garcia) Gomez, Terese (Tony) Grasso, Felecia (Justin Rapin) Valentine, Cassondra (Dylan) Honsinger, Jesus (Anna) Gomez, Gabrielle (Anthony Godinez) Gomez, and Corrina (Jake Funka) Gomez; his grandchildren, Luciano Gomez, Giovanni Garcia, Isaias Gomez, Karli Rapin, Isabella Valentine, Kinsley Rapin, Justin Rapin II, Halle Jane Honsinger, Grady John Honsinger, Roman Gomez, and Luciana Gomez; his mother, Jessica Gomez; siblings Antonio Gomez Jr. and Diane (Nick) Gomez Burden; future in-laws Connie and Rich Breternitz; and his beloved dogs, Ernest and Walter, known as “The Boys.” He also leaves behind cherished brothers Joe and Franko Ortiz, lifelong friend Corrina Benton and her family, Donny Apple and the Log Cabin family, and many nieces and nephews to whom he was a devoted father figure.