Gabriel Cortes Sr., age 77 of Vineland, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 26, 2016 at the Hammonton Center.

Gabriel was born in Utuado, Puerto Rico to the late Felipe and Basilia (Gonzalez) Cortes and has been a resident of Vineland since he was 15 years old.  Prior to his retirement, Gabriel was a chef with the Centerton Golf Club and later with the Buena Tavern.  While employed by the Buena Tavern, he was proudly recognized for his outstanding cooking talents in an article by the Daily Journal.  Gabriel enjoyed raising animals, most especially birds such as parakeets and finches.  He also liked to garden and share time with his family and friends.

Gabriel was predeceased by his 5 brothers; Juan, Segundo, Encarnacion, Eduvigis and Eulogio Cortes and by his 3 sisters; Julia Rodriguez, Francisca Soto and Rosa Sanchez.

Gabriel is survived by his 3 loving children; Gabriel Cortes Jr., Luz Eneida Garcia and husband David and Itzamar Garcia and husband Salvador, all of Vineland.  His 5 cherished grandchildren; Kelly, Erica, Alex, Rachel and Kayla and his great-grandson Liam.  He is also survived by his former wife and the mother of his children, Luz Maria Garcia and his sister-in-law Cani Cortes, along with several nieces, nephews and cousins.

The funeral service will be held on Friday, Sept.  30 ^th at 2:00 pm at the Wainwright-Bernhardt Funeral Home, 1024 E. Landis Ave. Vineland.  Burial will follow in Siloam Cemetery.  Family and friends may gather from 1:00 – 2:00 pm at the Funeral Home.

Please visit www.wbfuneralhome.com to share condolences with the family.