Gilberto "Papocho" Erasmo Montero

Gilberto Erasmo Montero of Orlando, Florida, passed away at his home on Wednesday, July 10th, at the age of 72. He was born on April 11, 1952, in Panama City, Panama, where he grew up.

In his early years, Gilberto fell in love with horses and began riding them at the tender age of 9. This passion led him to pursue a career as a jockey, riding in many racetracks in New York City including Belmont Park, Aqueduct, Saratoga, and Meadowlands, among others. Gilberto worked tirelessly doing what he loved to support his family.

Apart from his career in racing, he was actively involved in auto mechanics, landscaping, and cherished spending time with his family. He found great joy in being part of the New Life Church of God congregation. As Gilberto's health started to decline, he discovered a new passion for baking. Baking became therapeutic for him, offering an escape from the realities of his cancer. He was delighted in creating all sorts of treats for every occasion and holiday.

Gilberto’s loving spirit lives on through his lovely wife of 40 years, Marilyn, his four daughters Tiffany, Ashley, Jazmine, and Jennifer, his three grandchildren Eli, Stella, and Kai, two sons-in-law Josuel and Jake, and his beloved fur baby Boo.

Gilberto was a man of few words but strong actions; he always had a solution and never gave up. He was known for his stubborn independence; the tougher the challenge, the harder he worked to overcome it. He was a dependable father and husband, a fearless and strong individual, a remarkable husband, and an amazing father and grandfather. Gilberto courageously battled cancer for 11 challenging years. Despite spending most of his days in clinics and hospitals, his faith remained steadfast, and he never lost sight of God.

As we honor Gilberto today, we first and foremost thank God for blessing him with 72 years of life and the strength to fight cancer for 11 years. We also extend our gratitude to our church congregation at New Life Church of God and pastors Mark Todd and Dale Fountain. Our heartfelt thanks go to the AdventHealth Hospice Team, including Nurse Rosa, Social Worker Debra, and Carmen. Lastly, we thank each and every one of you for being here today to honor Gilberto and to support our family.

A visitation for Gilberto will be held Wednesday, July 17, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at National Cremation Society, 7565 Red Bug Lake Road, Oviedo, FL 32765.