Gabriel Isidro Sarate's Obituary
Gabriel Isidro Sarate, of Ocean View, Delaware, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026, at Beebe Healthcare. He was a man of character, charisma, and unmistakable charm who left an impression everywhere he went.
Gabe grew up in Virginia and graduated from Culpepper County High School, Class of 1959. Shortly after graduation, he answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Air Force, where he proudly served with honor and dedication. He received a Vietnam Services Medal, National Defense Medal and a Longevity Service Award. Following his time in the military, Gabe built a life defined by hard work and integrity. He was devoted to his family and built a career as a car salesperson where his integrity set him apart from all others. Across multiple positions at various dealerships, Gabe knew just about everyone in the community and everyone knew him.
Beyond his work, Gabe embraced life fully, and always with humor. He loved golfing, traveling, and going out to eat, always ready to try a new restaurant or revisit an old favorite. He and his beloved wife enjoyed taking salsa lessons together, travelling, and spending time with family. Gabe could talk about anything with anyone; he was uniquely kind, endlessly conversational, and effortlessly charismatic. He left behind stories that will be told with smiles for years to come. His legacy of integrity, humor, and heart will remain in the lives of all who knew him.
Gabe is preceded in passing by his parents, Isidro and Vivian Sarate; his first wife, Irene Sarate in 2011; and his sister, Patricia Williams. He is survived by his wife of 15 years, Maria Elena Sarate; his children: Elizabeth Sarate (Mike Kirkpatrick) and Gabrielle Myers; his three grandchildren: Vivian, Liam, and Samantha; his brother, Daniel Sarate; Neice Andrea Sarate and nephews Bryan and Jeffrey Williams; and a host of extended family and friends who will miss him.
A Celebration of Gabriel's Life will be held on Friday, April 3, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Watson Funeral Home, 211 S Washington Street, Millsboro, DE 19966, where friends may visit beginning at 10:00 AM.
Please visit Gabe’s Life Memorial Webpage and sign his online guestbook at https://www.watsonfh.com
FLORIST NOTE: PLEASE HAVE ALL ARRANGEMENTS DELIVERED TO WATSON FUNERAL HOME ON THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2026 BY 3:00PM
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