The publication is reproduced in full below:
HONORING THE LIFE OF GILBERT FRANK COELHO
______
HON. JIM COSTA
of california
in the house of representatives
Thursday, July 14, 2022
Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Gilbert Coelho, long-time resident of Firebaugh, who passed away at age 80 on April 15, 2022. He was a strong man of faith and an excellent example of a man of great character.
Gilbert was born in San Leandro, California. He was one of four children born to Otto and Alice Coelho, and they were raised on the family dairy farm in Dos Palos. Gilbert was involved in 4H and FFA where he raised and showed animals with his brothers. He worked on the family farm until the 1960's and at Eagle Field and then on to custom farming with his father in the Hilmar area.
Eventually, Gilbert worked with Western Farm Service, TRI Farms, and Del Monte Fresh Produce. He became a melon growing and harvesting specialist, and a well-respected Pest Control Advisor. Gilbert retired in 2009 and continued with agricultural consulting part-time.
In the Dos Palos/Firebaugh area, Gilbert met Carol Cunha, the love of his life, and they married in November of 1973. Two years later, they made their home in Firebaugh, where they raised their children and attended St. Joseph's Catholic Church. Gilbert was an active member and served on the church finance council and the bereavement committee.
Gilbert gave back to his community and served on the City of Firebaugh/School District Community Recreation Commission and acted as President of the local Lions Club. He was also a member of the Firebaugh Service Club, Knights of Columbus and Firebaugh Rotary Club. He volunteered for countless local community activities and was always ready to assist. Another passion he displayed for over 37 years was his role as School Board Member and President of the Firebaugh-Las Deltas Unified School District Board. He was also a delegate to the California School Boards Association and an Executive Board Member for the Fresno County Trustees association.
Gilbert helped to establish the Westside Institute of Technology which provided invaluable job training to local youth. He developed the Firebaugh High School Ag Department Almond Orchard, farming it with the staff and youth of the community. He could always be seen working the Orchard and serving his community.
Gilbert is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Carol; three children, five grandchildren, three siblings, five in-laws, and many nieces and nephews.
Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Gilbert Frank Coelho. May he be remembered as an inspiration for all who knew him.
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SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 168, No. 116(1), Congressional Record Vol. 168, No. 116(2)
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