Robert J. Gilbert's Obituary
Robert J. Gilbert, age 85, of Wild Rose, WI passed away on Sunday, October 9, 2016 at his residence under the care of hospice. Bob was born in Hancock, WI on January 15, 1931, the son of the late D. Irving and Freda (Abbott) Gilbert. On April 20, 1953, Bob married Mary Ferris in Hancock, WI. He graduated from Tri-County High School in 1948 and studied Biology and Conservation at Stevens Point Teachers College, graduating in 1952. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and began his education career teaching soldiers while he was stationed in Germany. He taught sciences and driver's ed in Wild Rose from 1956 to 1990. Bob earned a Master of Science in Teaching from UW Oshkosh in 1966. His interest in science and conservation found expression in their pine tree plantation in Adams County and home garden and orchard. He cultivated everything from apples and blueberries to shiitake mushrooms. He was a member of the Inland Bird Banding Association and banded birds for thirty years.
Bob is survived by his wife, Mary Gilbert, Wild Rose; his children: Stephen (Melanie) Gilbert, Rio, WI; Susan (Jeffrey) Gardner, Superior, WI; Margaret (Gerhardt) Getzin, Wausau, WI; Laura (David) Stertz, Berlin, WI and Sarah Gilbert, Stevens Point, WI. Also surviving are his 8 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. The Funeral Service will be on Saturday, October 15 at 11 AM at Wild Rose United Methodist Church with Reverend Douglas Clement, officiating. Burial with Military rites will be in the Hancock Cemetery. Visitation will be on Friday evening from 4 PM to 8 PM at the Holly Funeral Home in Wild Rose and also on Saturday morning from 10 AM until the time of services at the church. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Bob's name. Holly Funeral Home in Wild Rose is assisting the family with arrangements.
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