John L. Gilbert

John L. Gilbert, 90, passed away due to natural causes at his residence on Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024.

John was born on July 4, 1934, in Glasgow, Mont., to Charles and Hope (Hall) Gilbert. He was raised in Glasgow, graduating from high school there. During his school years, John held several different jobs, including Markles Store, at the bowling alley setting the pins, and corralling the last of the wild horses around Fort Peck with his father.

Immediately after graduation, John began working for Burlington Northern Railroad as part of a track crew. That came to an abrupt end when he was drafted by the US Marines Corps to serve during the Korean War. Upon his honorable discharge, John returned to Glasgow where he joined Burlington Northern again, working his way to electrician. In 1961, he married Anita Engstrom, and the couple made their home in Glasgow for a short time. In 1964, they moved to Whitefish, Mont., with their first child. They relocated in 1965 to Sandpoint, Idaho, and then on to Spokane, Wash., in 1969, where they remained for nine years and the birth of their two sons. Their last move was to Havre, Mont., in 1978. John remained with the railroad until the early 90s when he retired. After retirement, he drove school bus for a while just to keep busy.

John was a social man who enjoyed his coffee groups, fishing, hunting, and woodworking. He enjoyed outdoor activities, which led to joining the Ducks Unlimited, Pheasants Forever, and Walleyes Unlimited. He was a member of First Lutheran Church, and dedicated his time to the church, helping out in whatever capacity he was able. He was a dedicated Lefse and Lutefisk volunteer. More than anything else, John loved his wife and family. He spent as much time with them as he could, and when they were younger, he coached his children in soccer.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Hope Gilbert.

John is survived by his wife of 63 years, Anita Gilbert, of Havre; children Michelle (Harold) Woodhouse, of Fairfield, Mont., Shane (Sharona) Gilbert, of Helena, Mont., and Mike (Amanda) Gilbert, of Missoula, Mont.; six grandchildren, Zachary (Ashley) and Seth (Ginny) Woodhouse, Hollee (Timothy) Woodhouse-Anderson, and Dylan, Noah, and Ava Gilbert; five great-grandchildren; brother Kenny (Lynn) Gilbert, of Glasgow; three nieces; and numerous friends.

John's family has suggested memorial donations be made to First Lutheran Church or the charity of the donor's choice.