Louis R. Gomez

It is with much sadness that we announce the passing of Louis R. Gomez, of Shafter, on Dec. 30, 2022. Louie was born July 7, 1943, in Bakersfield, and attended Bakersfield grammar schools and East Bakersfield High School, where he played saxophone in the EBHS Marching Band and was a member of the band, "The Gay Lads," playing at various parties and dances during those years.

He served in the US Navy from 1961 to 1967 as a radarman and petty officer 2nd class, and attended Bakersfield College after completing his military service.

He began his career at Pacific Bell as a lineman and retired after more than 30 years of service. After a short break, he went to work for Brooks Fiber Communications and started a landscaping business.

His tireless work ethic kept him involved in many community organizations, such as the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, where he was the executive director for 16 years, and the City of Shafter Planning Commission for 15 years. He served on the Kern County Grand Jury, and was involved in numerous community groups in Bakersfield, Shafter, Wasco and Delano. He served on the board of directors of many organizations in Kern County, including the Kern County Economic Opportunity Commission as board secretary, and still made time for the occasional chili cook-off or an opinion column for The Bakersfield Californian.

Louie was especially proud of his children and grandchildren, instilling in them the same work ethic and dedication to service. He was an inspiration to all.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 41 years, Shirley A. Gomez, whom he dearly missed; her daughter Kari Hinderliter; his parents, Michael and Nellie Gomez, and his brother, Michael Jr.

Louie is survived by his children, Lisa Gomez-Wilson and her children, Adam, Brooke, Brian, Zoe and Caiden; Betsy and Robert Martinez and their children, Natalie, Emily and Robert; Michelle Nelson and her children, Katrina, Justin, Jessica and Tyler; and numerous great-grandchildren that were the joy of his life. Papa will be missed by all.

Recitation of the Rosary will be held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 124 Columbus Ave., Bakersfield, on Wednesday, Jan. 11, at 9:30 a.m. followed by Funeral Mass at 10 a.m. and Interment at Shafter Memorial Cemetery, 18662 Santa Fe Way. A reception will be at the Ford Theater, 1101 E. Lerdo Hwy., from 12 to 4 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital.