Gilbert Cardoza, Sr.

Gilbert Cardoza, Sr., 88, of Franklin, IN formerly of Bristol, IN., passed away Monday August 21, 2023 at Compass Park Indiana Masonic Home in Franklin. He was born March 16, 1935 in Mercedes, TX to Pablo and Pilar Cardoza. He married Ella Mae Garcia on September 23, 1956.

Gilbert worked as a plumber in the RV industry and the manufactured housing, this career opened the doors to Elkhart General Hospital where he worked in the Environmental Services Department. He loved comic books, most of all he loved to spend time with his friends and family, especially his grandchildren. He was a former member of St. Mary of the Annunciation Catholic Church in Bristol, IN   and St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Franklin, IN.

Gilbert is survived by his children, Nora (Scott) Cardoza-Deering of Franklin, IN., David (Richard Mills) Cardoza-Mills of Bristol, IN., Norma (Terry) Alber of Bristol, IN and Joseph (Bonnie) Cardoza of Continental, OH., 22 grandchildren and several great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. Gilbert was preceded in death by his parents, his son Gilberta Jr. (Sheila) Cardoza, his children’s mom Ella Mae, his brothers Baldemar (Hortencia Fuentes) Cardoza and Louis “Lewie” (Hijinia “Virginia” Rincon) Cardoza and his loving companion Marcia Harper.

Visitation will be held from 3-6 pm on Thursday, August 31, 2023 at Stemm-Lawson-Peterson Funeral Home, 1531 Cobblestone Blvd., Elkhart, IN 46514 where funeral services will be at 6pm where Pastor John Hogsett will officiate. He will be laid to rest at 2:50 pm on Friday, September 1, 2023 at Prairie Street Cemetery. Online condolences may be made to the Cardoza family at www.stemmlawsonpeterson.com