Cecil Lovato

The Lovato family is sad to announce the loss of our uncle, Cecil J. Lovato. Cecil Lovato, 97, quietly crossed over to his heavenly reward on January 12, 2015 after a long illness. His humor, laughter, determined generous spirit and kindness to all will be deeply missed by his family and many friends. Cecil loved people and was loved by many in return.
Cecil Lovato was the eighth of ten children born to maria Manuela (Gallegos) Lovato and Pedro Jose Lovato. The Lovato children were Maria Ana (Anna), Pedro (Pete) Frutozo, Isabel, Fedelina (Lena), Josefa, (Josephine) Francisca, Celia (Cecilia) Estefina, Carlos, (Carl) Blas, Jose Celestrino (Cecil), Abdon (Don) and Francisco (Frank) Macario Lovato.
Cecil was born on a farm in David, New Mexico on March 19, 1918. After the passing of his father in 1922 he moved to Colorado with his mother and siblings where he completed his education. Upon graduation from high school Cecil joined the U.S. Army, serving int he Pacific theater during World War Two with the rank of Corporal. After the war he moved to California where he started out his life's career with National Cash Register. Cecil loved to travel and explore other cultures and visited many places during his lifetime. In his later years he put his travel on hold to care for his two sisters who became ill and cared for them gently until their passing.
He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings and he is survived by his sister-in-law Linda Medina Lovato and his many nieces, nephews and their families. Cecil was the most respected and generous of men. From a humble background he was always proud of his Spanish heritage and loved to tell stories of growing up in New Mexico and Colorado.
Our family wishes to express our appreciation to his caregivers who cared for our loved one so gently. The staff at Vintage Simi Hills, the Garabato family of the Simi Home, his spiritual advisor Peter Conway and for his wonderful Hospice Care Angel, Irma Baroma who cared for him in such a tender way and was by his side at his passing.
A Funeral Mass will be held on February 20, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Peter Claver Catholic Church in Simi Valley. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to your favorite charity.