Richard "Dutch" Gilbert Sr's Obituary
Richard "Dutch" Gardner Gilbert Sr, age 83, of McBride, passed away October 15, 2016 at his home. Richard was born on July 9, 1933 in Lansing, Michigan, son of Austin and Zelma (Hawkins) Gilbert. Richard grew up in the Lansing area and then moved to McBride when he was still very young. Richard served in the Army as a Private First Class in 1953, at the tail end of the Korean War. Richard was employed at Hitachi Magnetics in Edmore, Michigan for over 33 years and then retired. Richard enjoyed golfing, watching baseball, coaching little league, Nascar racing, and camping with the "DUH" family. Richard was a lifetime member of the Lakeview VFW Post 3701. He was also a board member of the Village of McBride, McBride Cemetery Sexton, a Constable for McBride, and enjoyed being "Santa" for McBride many years.
Richard was preceded in death by his wife Norma Jean (Deyarmond), parents Austin and Zelma (Hawkins) Gilbert, son Donald, grandchildren Samantha Gilbert, and Lee Avery, two brothers Keith (Fern) Gilbert, and Omar (Marlene) Gilbert.
Richard is survived by one sister Shirley (Gilbert) Mascho, brother LeVer Gilbert, children Barbara (Sherman) Avery, Darlis (Dan) McDonald, Georgia Ann (Dennis) Cutler, Rhonda Gilbert daughter in law, Richard (Denise) Gilbert, Denise (Bill) Shafer, Duane (Terri) Gilbert; 15 loving grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, 7 great - great grandchildren; Several nephews, nieces and friends.
A Funeral service will be held for Richard Gardner Gilbert on Wednesday October 19, 2016 at the Brigham Funeral Chapel in Edmore at 2:00 pm Funeral Chapel in Edmore, Michigan. Visitation will be October 18, 2016 from 2-4 and 6-8pm. Graveside services to McBride cemetery following the funeral service Wednesday October 19, 2016. Memorial Contributions for Richard Gardner Gilbert may be made to the Cancer Society of Montcalm County. All are invited following the service for a luncheon at the Day Township Hall.
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