Gil passed away peacefully July 27, 2012 in West Seattle. He was born to Cesaria and Jose Pastrana in Crowley, Colorado. The family relocated to Yakima, Washington during his childhood. While living on the farm, he dreamed about faraway places. His dreams were realized when he was drafted to the Army in 1958 and served until 1960. Based in Frankfurt, Germany, Gil served two years experiencing the beautiful sites of Europe.

Upon his return, he settled in West Seattle and met Karin, who was new to the area, straight from Germany! Gil was a renowned Beautician for over 50 years and many generations of Seattleites were groomed and counseled by Mr. Gil. He loved his life, loved his family and loved people. One of his favorite quotes was "sometimes we need a story more than food." The spirit of his clients and friends were always well fed by his tall tales and prodding jokes.

Gil is survived by his wife, Karin; son, Joel (Lisa) Pastrana; daughters, Julie (Scott) Fisk and Liane (John) Woodside; six grandchildren who made his heart soar, Alex, Simon, Mia, Tallulah, Mirabel and Katie; brothers, Emilio Pastrana and Julio (Marylou) Pastrana; sisters, Victoria Pastrana, Juanita (Jim) Zagelow and Lupe (Pinky) Madayag; and many nieces and nephews who loved him.

We wish to thank all of those who supported us through his six month battle with cancer; our appreciation is endless! Gil was a kind, funny and gracious human being who will be greatly missed. As Grandpa Gil used to say, "see you in the movies."

Donations can be made in his name to Group Health Hospice of Seattle. A celebration of his life was held August 11, 2012.