November 28, 1936 – March 20, 2024  

Robert Owen (Bob) Gilbert passed away peacefully at the age of 87 from vascular dementia.

“Little Bobby Gilbert” was born in Melville, Saskatchewan and lived in many different places across Canada, settling lastly in Kamloops, B.C. He led a full life, becoming a Queen’s Scout in his youth, serving in the RCAF as an Argus radio/navigation officer doing long range anti-submarine patrols during the cold war, graduating from UBC, and working for Imperial Oil in management until his retirement in the early 90’s when he started a real estate gig.

A highlight in his retirement was volunteering with the Valleyview Overlanders Lions club where he served as club president and was awarded the prestigious Melvin Jones Fellow in recognition for his humanitarian work. He also volunteered with the Canadian Executive Services Organization mentoring businesses in the Ukraine and the B.C. Interior.

He was married to his sweetheart Helen for almost 65 years, and they enjoyed a lot of travelling over the last 30 years. Bob enjoyed spending time with family, fixing things around the house and garden, golfing, relaxing by the backyard pool (which was ‘too warm’ if it hit 80 degrees!) and watching his four grandkids grow up.

The last few years were very difficult due to his illness, and we hope that he is now in a better place. We will miss his wisdom, his kindness, and his easy smile.

Bob was predeceased by his parents Olive and Fred, his siblings and their spouses – brother Roland (Pat) and sister Donna (Chuck). He is survived by his wife Helen, his children Patric (Roz), Karen, and Tony (Dawn), his grandchildren Emily, Ryan, Mercury and Avery, and furry friends Abby, Jelly and Milo.

Thanks to the staff on 5 South at Royal Inland Hospital for their compassionate care and kindness.

A life well lived… rest easy Bobbers. You are so missed.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada, Diabetes Canada, or a charity of your choice. Or channel your inner Bob and volunteer in your own community!

You may offer a message of condolence at Schoening Funeral Service for the Gilbert family.

• Date : 2024-03-20
• Location : Kamloops