Jose Contreras Obituary

Jose Contreras passed away on July 5th, 2025, in Southern California. Son of Ramiro and Aurelia Contreras of Gilroy. Brother of David Contreras, Esther Mantelli, Jaime Contreras, Efraim Contreras, and Maria Llamas. He is preceded in death by his brother, Abraham Contreras. Grandson of Benjamin and Guadalupe Chavez of Menlo Park, and the late Francisco and Amalia Contreras. Brother-in-law of Penny Jones, Gabriela Gamino, Marc Mantelli, Melanie Contreras, Tatiana Contreras, and Martin Llamas. Also survived by nieces, nephews, many cousins, aunts, uncles, and close friends.

Born and raised in Gilroy, CA. Graduated from Gilroy High School in 2006. A true outdoorsman from birth, he worked in both Yosemite and Yellowstone National Parks, the latter of which was where he assisted in research observations and field experiments with the park’s bison herds. In his free time, he enjoyed fishing, hunting, and hiking throughout the various national, state, and county parks. He volunteered at Cañada de los Osos, where he taught youth how to hunt, track, and clean game. Most importantly, he taught them to appreciate all that nature has to offer.  

Instead of flowers, donations can be made to Friends of Cañada de los Osos Ecological Reserve at P.O Box 1991 Gilroy, California.

Funeral Mass will be held Thursday, July 17, 2025, 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Gilroy, CA. Burial will follow at Gavilan Hills Memorial Park, Gilroy under direction of Habing Family Funeral Home.