In Great Honor of Our Father Homero Zapata

In honor of our father,

Homero Zapata.

Also known as Gabriel, A man of God...

God’s hero.  

On February 6, 2021 our beloved father, our hero, our best friend and the heart and soul of our family passed away in the ICU at UCSD medical center in Hillcrest. We have never felt a pain so deep, a loss so great and an event so traumatic in our lives until now.

In December, our father was diagnosed with stage 3 lung cancer. Although we knew his road to recovery would be difficult, we were optimistic and ready to begin planning treatment. But when our father got sick with COVID and then became critically ill, his window to treat the progressing cancer started to close. He was admitted in the hospital early January, where he was immediately transferred to the ICU. Despite all efforts put forth by his medical team, he only had setbacks. Week after week, he only regressed and became dependent on the most extensive measures and interventions. Despite our hopes and desires, after 5 weeks of no progress and only prolonged suffering, we knew we had to follow his wishes and not ours. His final moments were peaceful and off the ventilator, surrounded by us (his daughters), wife and brothers.

We wish to honor him the best way we can at his funeral. He was the most genuine, compassionate and good-hearted person you could ever meet. His integrity, selflessness and work ethic was unparalleled. He had an exceptional gift for making people feel like they belonged with the family even if they were strangers. He taught us the importance of connecting with others through mutual compassion and respect. He loved to help others and never expected anything in return. He loved to laugh, watch soccer (especially las Chivas) and yes, even watch soap operas in the evening.

Caring and providing for his family was his main purpose in life. He filled our home with so much love and laughter, and was a home for many outside the family. He lived by his good values, and never complained a day in his life despite how tired he was even when he was diagnosed with cancer. He never lost his strength and spirit. He was a fighter! And that’s the spirit that will continue to live in our hearts. 

We created this page for those who expressed interest in helping with our father’s funeral costs and hospital bills. Thank you for your love, prayers and generosity during these difficult times.

  With  Love ❤️ Ashley, Brenda and Lizette 

 The Zapata Brothers