With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Gilbert “Lito” Carrillo, a devoted father and Bapa, husband, brother, and friend, on Monday, December 2, 2024 after a courageous battle with leukemia. Surrounded by his family, he left this world as he lived in it: with grace, dignity and love.

   Born on January 13, 1954 in Winfield, KS, Lito lived a life rooted in family, faith and love. He was the baby of the family, the youngest of 11 siblings.

   He grew into a man of incredible generosity and compassion. He was a pillar of strength and kindness in every circle he touched, whether it was his family, his friends or even those he encountered in passing. With a boundless heart, he devoted himself to uplifting and supporting others, placing their needs above his own.

   He was happiest spending time with his family and friends - whether cheering for his beloved Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas Jayhawks, spending peaceful days fishing, cutting his clients’ hair or cooking breakfast for a crowd. A true family man, his love and pride for his children and grandchildren knew no bounds.

   He married the love of his life, Debi, on February 18, 1989. He is survived by their three children and their spouses, Ryan (Craig) Verstraete, Tyson (Kristn) Stuart, and Dustin (Lori) Carrillo; four grandchildren, Beau, Isla, Beckham, and Genevieve; brothers, Paul "Jr." (Brenda) of Tucson, AZ, Phillip (Susan) of Wichita, KS, Jesse "Bob" (Sarah) of Winfield, KS, Arthur "Art" (Charlotte) of Winfield, KS; sister, Mary “Cuca” Snetsinger of Winfield; and countless nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by siblings, Benito Carrillo, Tonya Ceballos, Pauline Silva, Domitila Ceballos, and Amparo Carrillo.

   Lito will be remembered for his warm smile, his generosity and the many lessons - and recipes - he passed down to generations.

   Rosary will be at 6:00 pm, Tuesday, December 10, 2024; Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 am, Wednesday, December 11, 2024, both at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 1321 N. Stratford Ln., Wichita, KS 67206.

   In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Leukemia and Lymphomas Society, P.O. Box 22324, New York, NY 10087 (www.LLS.org) as they continue their mission to find a cure.

  Services in care of Downing & Lahey East Mortuary.