Antonio Gutierrez Carbajal

January 17, 1966 - May 21, 2023

In the depths of our hearts, burdened with indescribable sorrow, we share the heartbreaking news of Antonio G. Carbajal's sudden departure on the morning of May 21, 2023.

Services will be held in Vacaville, California, where we invite you to join us in honoring Antonio's memory. A viewing and rosary will take place at VacaHills Chapel on June 22, 2023, from 5-8pm. Light refreshments will be provided. The Funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary's Catholic Church on June 23, 2023, at 10am, followed by a Graveside service and Interment at 1:30pm. We warmly welcome all who wish to pay their respects.

Born on January 17, 1966, in the humble town of Lagunilla, Jalisco, Mexico, Antonio Gutierrez Carbajal was the eldest son of Rafaela Gutierrez and Celestino Carbajal, among eight siblings. As a young teenager, Antonio journeyed to the United States with his family, settling in Los Angeles. In the absence of his father, Antonio assumed the role of a pillar for his household, instilling in him the values of initiative, hard work, selflessness, and humility that would define his entire life.

At the tender age of 18, Antonio met the love of his life, his "mija," his "gorda," his "honey," Maria Cruz, in Los Angeles. Antonio embraced Maria's 2 children Juan and Elizabeth as his own. Together, Maria and Antonio were blessed with four more children, Jorge, Claudia, Sandra, and Angel. In search of a better life for his growing family, Antonio made the decision to move to Northern California, leaving behind the violence of Los Angeles. They settled in Vacaville, where they lovingly raised their six remarkable children.

For the majority of his career, Antonio dedicated himself to working in Concrete. He spent nearly 25 years at Merit Concrete under Larry McGarr, followed by a few years at Emmhy Construction alongside his good friend, Miguel Hernandez, he even got his Contractor's license and started his own business Elite Concrete where he grew his skills in the industry and finally eight years at Cemcon with Anthony "Butchie" Buccellato under Dave Gutridge. However, one of Antonio's many talents was his proficiency as a mechanic. He possessed a natural aptitude for working on cars and found solace in this craft.

A lifelong athlete, Antonio's passion for sports ignited during his childhood and teenage years as a baseball player. Upon arriving in Vacaville, he encountered difficulties finding a baseball league, leading him to embrace soccer. Thus began a new chapter in his life! From that point forward, Antonio became an ardent soccer player and enthusiast. He cheered for "Club America" with unwavering loyalty. Antonio actively participated in multiple soccer leagues, playing games in Dixon, Vacaville, and Sacramento. With Maria and their children as his spirited cheerleaders, he traversed the Bay Area for matches and tournaments. As his own children grew older, he even took on the role of coaching their soccer teams. Through the years, as his children embarked on their own journeys, Antonio's passion for soccer continued to burn brightly. Soccer took him on adventures to Mexico City, Hawaii, Las Vegas, and Tijuana, with Maria by his side, exuberantly supporting him. Antonio adored soccer! When he wasn't playing the game, he could be found at home, immersed in the joy of watching it. He followed every league, from Mexican and European leagues to Champions League and women's leagues. He even delighted in watching beach soccer. Futbol held a special place in his heart.

Antonio's other great joy in life was being a grandfather, affectionately known as Tito. He had the privilege of nurturing 15 grandchildren, who illuminated his world. He cherished spending time with these little ones, imparting his knowledge of tools in the garage, and engaging in heartfelt conversations with the older ones about soccer and their myriad interests.

Antonio and Maria, united by destiny, shared an extraordinary journey spanning almost four decades. They crossed paths as young adults, navigating the unfamiliar territory of a new country, and together, they forged the epitome of the American Dream. Through their unwavering love and unbreakable bond, they built a life brimming with blessings. Together, they owned a home, and two thriving businesses, while raising their children with profound pride. Their hearts overflowed with joy as they reveled in the company of their grandchildren, friends and beloved family.

Antonio and Maria were more than just partners in life; they were kindred spirits, soulmates who discovered solace and belonging within each other's embrace. Whether nestled on the couch, enthralled by the drama of a telenovela, or basking in the sun-kissed shores of Hawaii on a cherished vacation, their love created an unwavering sanctuary they called home. In those precious 40 years, they reveled in the vibrant tapestry of existence, yet it feels as though time slipped through their fingers all too swiftly. Their union was a testament to the power of love, resilience, and unwavering commitment. Antonio and Maria exemplified the beauty of a life shared, an everlasting flame that illuminated their path. The memories they forged, the laughter they shared, and the tears they wiped away together will forever be etched upon the hearts of those fortunate enough to have witnessed their love story unfold.

As we bid farewell to Antonio, we mourn not only the loss of a remarkable individual but also the profound love that Maria and he nurtured and cultivated throughout their years together. The ache in our hearts is a testament to the immeasurable impact they had on our lives, a testament to the vastness of the love they cultivated. Their legacy is a testament to the extraordinary power of love—a love that transcends time, circumstance, and even death itself. Antonio and Maria's love story will forever serve as a guiding light, inspiring us to cherish and celebrate the precious moments we share with our own loved ones. Though their time together may seem fleeting, the depth and richness of their connection will endure for eternity.

Antonio led a remarkable life, brimming with love, laughter, camaraderie, sports, family, and true love. His warmth and respect endeared him to all those fortunate enough to know him. Antonio possessed a contagious smile and an infectious laughter that will forever be etched in our memories. Above all, he will be remembered for his selflessness and humility, traits that touched the lives of countless individuals. His absence will be deeply felt.

Antonio is preceded in death by his beloved mother, Rafaela Gutierrez Carbajal.

Left to cherish his memory is his devoted wife of almost 40 years, Maria Cruz Carbajal, his children Juan Carlos, Elizabeth, Jorge Antonio, Claudia Yzett, Sandra, and Angel, his sons-in-law and daughters-in-law Laura, Carlos, Matthew, Brandi, and Chris, as well as his adored grandchildren Carlos Daniel, Jennyfer Naomi, Angela, Eric Giovani, Christian Axel, Alejandra Jasmin, Antonio Rafael, Analiah, Tony, Julien Gabriel, Jaykob Matthew, Cruz Antonio, Matthew James II, Gavin Michael, and Dean Henry. Antonio is also survived by his father, Celestino Carbajal, his siblings and their spouses, Celia, Lorena and Pancho, Lety and Pablo, Estela and Alfredo, Arnulfo "Fito," Saul and Kelly, and Celestino "Tino." He leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, compadres, comadres, colleagues, teammates, and friends. Antonio's extended family includes the Garcia Families, Ramirez Family, Arriaga Family, Rodriguez Family, Romero Family, Carbajal Families, and Sandoval Family, along with friends that turned into family, the Hernandez Family, Navarro Families, McGarr Family, Aguiar Families, Whittaker Family, Delgadillo Family, Arreola Family, and Mata Families.

The Carbajal Family, led by Maria Cruz, would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming love, support, unparalleled generosity, prayers, and companionship extended to them during this challenging time. Your unwavering presence has been their source of strength and solace.