Obituary of Adrian Gabaldon

Adrian Gabaldon truly embodied the essence of family values and held a deep connection with his loved ones. His traditions and special moments with family reflected his heartwarming personality and love for his family. A cornerstone of his existence was his bond with his family. One of his traditions each year was to invite his loved ones into the woods and seek out the "perfect" Christmas tree. Many of the wild pine trees in Florida don’t have the appearance of trees grown on a tree farm. So, as a result, every year his children would help him staple, nail, zip tie, string up several pine limbs together so they would have a full and beautiful appearance.  Once completed, they were worth more than any store-bought trees! Adrian never asked for presents at Christmas, in fact, he would insist that no one spend money on him. Instead, what he wanted was family treasures.  He asked for personalized, unique Christmas ornaments with his children and grand kid’s pictures to adorn his tree.  He would leave this tree, brimming with images of his loved ones, up in his home until it was time to go to the woods to cut down the next year’s tree. On the day he passed, the tree was still up, and the lights were turned on.  So, in a very real sense, he was surrounded by his loved ones in the unique way which he cherished.  

Another long-standing tradition that will live on for many years, is the baking of a bunny cake for Easter.  He loved to invite the kids to help decorate the cake.  After a few pictures, the cake was consumed very quickly.  During Covid, a new tradition emerged, a zoom call was organized so they could all fellowship from across the United States on Easter morning and decorate their cakes together.  Everyone would proudly hold up their completed cakes for all to see.  The adaptation to a virtual celebration during challenging times showed his adaptability and commitment to staying connected with his loved ones. Only days before he passed, he had expressed excitement that he was looking forward to having a Zoom call with family and baking a bunny cake. In fact, he declared this year his bunny cake was going to be the best one ever! We must concede, his heavenly cake is surly the best ever!  

Mealtime with family and friends was also a very special time for Adrian, he never needed much of an excuse to come together, enjoy everyone’s company and share in great food. An alligator hit by a car and found in someone’s back yard or a freshly killed wild hog on the side of the road was cause enough to have a BBQ and invite as many people as possible.  Adrian has hosted countless banquets at his home over the years.  Now, he dines at the Lord’s table for the greatest feast of all!

Not only did Adrian prioritize family, but he also dedicated his life to serving the Lord and the community. His acts of service through his church, Kairos, Lion’s Club, Knights of Columbus, and missionary work in the Dominican Republic are a testament to his selflessness and faith.

Adrian's impact on his family and the community will be lasting and profound. His legacy of love, service, and togetherness will continue to resonate for years to come, reminding everyone of the importance of cherishing moments with loved ones and serving others with a generous heart. Adrian Gabaldon was a living example of the word’s found in Matthew 25:21: “His Lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your Lord.”

Adrian is survived by his daughters Michelle (Eric), Peyton, Co., Patricia (Shawn) Panama City, FL., and Sheri, Lakeland, FL., sons Michael (Leah) Auburndale, FL., and Christopher T. (Ashley), Auburndale, FL., brother Valentine Gabaldon, Auburndale, FL., sister Marie Agnes Langston, West Palm Beach, FL., grandchildren - Shelby, Levi, Cody, Clayton, Karch, Canyon, Gabi, Kristen, Tiffany, Christopher A., Amber, Porsche, and Bella. great grandchildren - Tessa, Lilly, Madison, Owen, Jazmin, Luna, Easton, Branson, and Willow. 

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday April 13th, 2024, 10 A.M. at St Joseph's Winter Haven Chapel. 

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