Gustavo "Gus" Covarrubias, of Gilroy, passed away on June 30, 2025, at the tender age of 39 after a courageous battle with cancer. Gus left this world far too soon, leaving behind countless hearts marked forever by his warmth, humor, and boundless love.

Born to Irma and Juan Covarrubias on July 29, 1985, in Gilroy, Gus quickly grew into a spirited young man whose joy for life brightened every room. Known to all as hilarious and lighthearted, Gus was always equipped with a joke or kind word, ensuring anyone who crossed his path felt welcomed and valued. He made friends effortlessly and filled every gathering with laughter, music, and joy. Gus had a true heart of gold; no matter the circumstance, he was consistently concerned about those around him, willing to lend a helping hand whenever someone needed it. Gus had the kind of magnetic personality that drew others in, making everyone feel loved, welcomed, and at home.

When Gus met Samantha Mendez in 2020, he immediately knew he had found the love of his life. Together, they embraced an exciting new chapter: growing a family and building dreams. In 2022, Gus & Samantha founded South Bay Creatives, a business he cherished deeply and
grew with never-ending passion. That same year, Gus and Samantha welcomed the birth of their son, Mateo, bringing immense joy into their lives. Soon after, the couple experienced another beautiful blessing with the arrival of their beloved daughter, Elliana, also known as Luna Girl, in 2023. Gus also deeply cherished his relationship with his eldest son Nathaniel, stepping wholeheartedly into the role of father figure and mentor, never missing one of Nathaniel's milestones or events.

Gus was a dedicated and hardworking man, proudly becoming a journeyman for Local 405 in 2024. He found joy and pride in woodworking, tackling home projects, and spending time in his workshop—each project a reflection of the love and care he poured into creating a safe, beautiful space for his family. Gus was always striving to build not just a home, but a haven. He also loved life's simpler pleasures—listening to Banda, spending time with family and friends, hunting for good deals on Facebook Marketplace, or cruising around town for garage sales. His adventurous soul was always up for a trip, experience something new, or coming up a story to tell no matter the occasion.

Gus was surrounded by the steady presence of his immediate family. His parents, Irma and Juan, showed up every single day to be with him—making sure he was never alone during his darkest days. His siblings, Jeannette and David, stepped in with care and connection during his
greatest time of need. Gus had an unbreakable bond with his first princess, Isabella; his title as her Nino is one he wore loud and proud. Together, their presence brought Gus moments of peace and reminded all who loved him of the bonds that held him through.

Gus also leaves behind a large and loving extended family—cousins, aunts, uncles, and in-laws—each of whom held a special place in his heart. His life was shaped and strengthened by their presence, and their love was felt by him always.

Gus proudly accomplished a few of his biggest personal milestones—he fulfilled a lifelong dream by getting his own woodworking shop, filled with the tools he had always dreamed of. That same year, he married the love of his life, Samantha, in an intimate setting surrounded by their children. Two things he deserved more time to enjoy.

Surviving Gus are his beloved wife, Samantha; their children, Nathaniel, Mateo, and Elliana; his devoted parents, Irma and Juan Covarrubias; his sister, Jeannette; his brother, David; and his cherished nieces and nephews, Isabella, Sebastian, and Giovanni. His love continues to live within each of them.

Although his time here was heartbreakingly brief, Gus lives on through the invaluable lessons he bestowed, the love he selflessly gave, and the countless memories he created with friends and family. In his final moments, Gus's greatest wish was for the wellbeing of his beloved wife and children, and he sadly mourned that he was leaving too soon the beautiful life he had prayed so intensely for. His departure reminds us of life's delicacy and the importance of cherishing every moment. Gus, you were taken from us far too soon. We may never understand why, but we promise to honor you always. We will carry forward your brilliant light, your humor, and your golden heart. You'll forever be the life of the party in our memories—the one who made us laugh, made us feel loved, and reminded us to live fully. Rest easy, Gus. You will never be forgotten.
We'll hold you in our hearts, always.