Richard Gilbert (Mansfield)'s Obituary
Richard Allen Gilbert, Sr. son of Arthur Rowe and Dorothy May Stone Gilbert, Sr., was born January 21, 1946 in Baltimore, Maryland and departed this life on July 14, 2017 at his home in Mansfield, Missouri at the age of seventy-one years, five months and twenty-three days.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Dorothy Gilbert, Sr. and a brother, Arthur Rowe “Scooter” Gilbert, Jr.
He leaves to celebrate his memory, a very special woman who was beloved and treasured by Richard, Frances Trejo, of the home; two sons, Richard Gilbert, Jr. and wife, Tina, of Lebanon, Missouri and Randy Gilbert of Baltimore, Maryland; four grandchildren, Josh Decker of Baltimore, Cody Massey and wife, Katie, Leanne Branther and husband, Nate, all of Phillipsburg, Missouri and Lillian Grace Huber of Baltimore; two great-grandsons, Keelan and Cason Massey of Phillipsburg and another great-grandbaby “B”, due in February 2018; two brothers, James Thomas McClain and John Timothy McClain both of Tampa, Florida; several close and special friends who we will always be grateful for, including, Donna, Lucy, Rosie, my sister Barb and her husband Dick, John, Joe the barber and sweet and caring Jo.
At the age of 17, he entered the military, serving 14½ years in the United States Army, living in many different states and countries. Upon returning to civilian life, he was an over-the-road truck driver for 23 years. In 2005, during the Gulf War, he went to Iraq where he drove a truck for Haliburton, delivering supplies to several military bases. He spent 1 year in Iraq and said it was the most exciting job he ever had. He tried to return to Iraq, but was turned down due to medical conditions.
Richard was a gentle soul and loved every part of life and saw beauty in everything. He loved children and admired their intelligence. In 2010 he started a special job of being Santa for many years. His charm, patience and love, brought big smiles to those who came to visit him throughout the Christmas season. He also loved animals including his two Yorkies, Lucky and Snicker Doodle, who were always by his side.
Richard was a loving companion, father, caring grandfather, brother, uncle and a respected friend. He had a huge heart and loved his family and children.
The family would like to recognize the exceptional care given by the VA Hospital in Columbia Missouri.
The compassionate care by Three Rivers Hospice to both Richard and I in his final days was a real blessing.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Mennonite Guest House in Columbia, Mo.
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