Gilberto Arroyo, Sr., of Cape Coral, Florida, passed away on May 11, 2026, at the age of 84. Born in Barranquilla, Colombia, Gilbert later settled in Burlington, New Jersey, before retiring to Florida.

     Gilberto was a hardworking, self-made man. At an early age, he spent much of his free time working on aircraft and automotive engines. He began his apprenticeship at just fourteen, developing skills that would shape a lifelong career as a talented and respected diesel mechanic.

     In his early years, Gilberto volunteered part-time as a bus driver, where he met Manuela Bedoya, a schoolteacher who became the love of his life. They were married on October 17, 1964, and later immigrated to the United States. They settled in New Jersey in the early 1970’s, living examples of the American Dream.

     Gilberto went on to work at McCollister’s Moving & Storage Company in Burlington. After thirty-five years of dedicated service, he retired in 2010 at the age of 69.

     He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 58 years, Manuela Silvia Bedoya, and his children, Bithiah Brown and Steven Antonio Arroyo.

Gilberto is survived by his children: Gilbert J. Arroyo Bedoya, Monica Rivera (Israel), Jorge Arroyo (Lisa), Wilson Arroyo (Vineet), and Tracy Beach (Robert). He is also survived by his many grandchildren—Stephanie, Jennifer, Jessica, Pryce, Julian, Steven Antonio, Aaron, Cristina, Daniel, Olivia, Samantha, Jace, Landon, Vanessa, and Alex—and great-grandchildren Maniyah, Samir, Tré, Nasiem, Trey and Kamden, all of whom will miss him dearly.

     A visitation will be held Thursday, May 21, 11:00 a.m. at Page Funeral Home, 302 E. Union St., Burlington, followed by a memorial service at 12:30 p.m. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.