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Donald K. 'Don' Gilbert Brentwood, TN QCWA # 25045 Chapter 182 |
Donald Keith Gilbert, Age 88, died peacefully on March 26th, 2016 at The Meadows, Nashville TN.
The Celebration of his Life will be held Friday, April 1st at West End Methodist church. A Masonic service will begin at 9:30 with a period of visitation until the officiated service at 11 AM by Rev Erin Racine and Dr. Ralph Kidd of Abingdon Virginia. Burial services with Military honors will be at 1 PM at Veterans Cemetery on McCrory Lane Nashville TN 37221.
Born to Thelma and Frank Gilbert on July 28th, 1927 in Dryden Virginia, Don was the 4th of 6 children. He was raised on a small family farm during the Great Depression.
After high school, he moved to Michigan for a short time before he joined the Navy. As a part of the Greatest Generation, he served his country in the South Pacific around the islands of Guam, Saipan and Tinian. After the war, Don took a job in Richmond Indiana, where he met and married the love of his life, Barbara Stoops.
A diligent student, Don took advantage of his GI benefits to pursue an education in industrial engineering. After his course of study, he returned to his Southern roots and settled with Barbara in Bristol Tennessee. Don worked at the Raytheon Corporation as an engineering manager for 29 years. He was responsible for numerous projects relating to the development of the Sparrow and Patriot Missile Systems. After retirement, Don and Barb traveled with family members across Europe and throughout the US and Canada, making many friends along the way.
Don was an avid ham radio operator, call sign W4EHI, and served as the president of the local radio club for many years. At home in his 'HAM Shack', he enjoyed many hours of camaraderie with his ham buddies, talking with radio enthusiasts from all over the world.
Don and Barbara shared a love for gardening. They took pride and joy in sharing the bounty of their summer garden with friends and family. During quiet time, Don always had his head in a book, typically on the subjects of history and biographies of world leaders.
Don's other pastimes included bird watching, attending Bristol White Sox baseball games, discussing politics, and telling stories.
Don was a loyal friend and confidant who enjoyed helping people and expecting nothing in return.
Don was member of Reynolds Memorial United Methodist, where he served as the Chairman of Trustees and board of directors. He also served as Grand Master of King Lodge 461, and was Member of All York Rite Bodies.
Survivors include three children: Ron (Sharon) Lafayette Ind, Joe (Cathy) Carrollton, Ky, Donna Westbrook (Barry), Franklin TN. Grandchildren: Ben Gilbert, (Cleveland, OH), Chelsea Maxwell (David) Nashville, TN, Great-grandson, Henry Joseph. Sister in laws, Nina Gilbert, Murfreesboro, TN, Judith Gilbert of Black Lake, NY and Haines City, Florida and many loving nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Thelma B. Gilbert and Frank C. Gilbert. Brothers and sisters, Joseph, Ann Gilbert Collier, Ray, Betty Harbor Waddell, Ben, and half-brother William Addison.
Special thanks to James Powers, MD and staff, Trey Harrell, MD, Avalon Hospice, The Meadows staff and caregivers, Robert, Debbie, Thelma and many others. Caregivers from Brighton Gardens, especially Stephen, Janice and Sherry.
He leaves a wonderful legacy for his family and friends. He will missed by all, especially his dear friend and Christian brother, Dr Ralph Kidd.
