Gerald "Poppa" Ligsay passed into God's hands on Tuesday, May 2, 2023. Gerald was born on November 26, 1938 in San Jose, California and was the son of George and Lidia Ligsay. Poppa graduated from the College of San Mateo with an A.A. degree in Horticulture . He spent his early life in the Navy, receiving several medals and awards. He went on to work at Houghton Mifflin Book company. He met his first wife, Elizabeth Orear, in 1976 and married in 1977 in San Jose, California. They had 32 very happy years together until her passing in 2008. They raised two wonderful children, Jeff Paynter (Deceased) and Michelle V. Stuart (Sunnyvale, CA).

Besides his children and gardening, he would often say the greatest joy and love he had was for his granddaughter, Jacquelyn "Dolly" Larios (Palo Alto, CA) and grandson, Andrew Larios (Redding, CA). For many years he picked them up from school on Wednesdays and took them for ice cream. Poppa was a very easy going special guy. Some of his favorite pastimes were working in his garden, spending time with family, watching football ("Go Niners!"), golfing, and photography. Later in life, he remarried Leota Eplett. They spent 13 lovely years together until his passing.

Gerald is survived by his loving family: Daughter Michelle V. Stuart (Sam) of Sunnyvale, California; Granddaughter Jacquelyn Larios (Brandon Roscoe); Grandson Andrew Larios (Abigail); Brother Eden Ligsay (Jeannie) of Sonora, California; his loving Wife Leota Ligsay; and many family members near and far.

Funeral will be held Friday, May 12th at 10am at Alameda Family Funeral Home 12341 Saratoga-Sunnyvale Rd. Saratoga, CA 95070.

Gerald will be laid to rest with Veterans Honors at the Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Los Altos, CA.

Donations can be made in Gerald's memory to:

Veterans Association

Attn: Voluntary Services

3801 Miranda Ave.

Palo Alto, CA 94304

In the memo please include "Gerald Ligsay Fund: GPS 2202"