Bill E. Gilbert

Bill E. Gilbert, 84, of Cameron, IL, passed away at 3:15 p.m., Wednesday, August 3, 2016 at Heartland Healthcare Center, Galesburg, IL.

He was born on October 7, 1931 in Alton, IL the son of George Oliver and Ida Florence (Wallace) Gilbert. Bill was raised and educated in Alton, IL, graduating from Alton High School.

Bill served for 4 years with the United States Navy during the Korean War. Following his discharge from the Navy Bill later served in the United States Army.

Bill married Donna Burk in Monmouth, IL on August 4, 1966 and she survives.

Bill worked as a cement mason finisher for the Labor Temple in Galesburg retiring in 1989. He later worked for Agar (Farmland Foods) in Monmouth and Carhartt in Galesburg.

Bill enjoyed fishing, hunting, working in his large vegetable garden, playing the piano, having cookouts with his family and friends, mushrooming and playing cards, especially pinochle. He was known for his great sense of humor and love of practical jokes.

Survivors include his wife, Donna Gilbert of Cameron; 2 daughters, Paulett (Jeff) Bendixon of Rochelle, IL and Kristyne Gilbert Bradford of Monmouth; one son, Larry Gilbert of Bloomington, IL; 9 grandchildren, Samantha (Steve) Oaks, Savanna Candor, Siera Candor, Danielle Bendixon, Liam Merritt-Gilbert, Cross Merritt-Gilbert, Bella Merritt-Gilbert, Kelcey Duy and Kyle Bradford; 4 great grandchildren, Hayden Losey, Aidric Oaks, Owen Oaks and River Oaks; his sister, Mary Wallace of Atlanta, GA; several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, George Gilbert and one sister, Connie Tipsword.

A gathering of family and friends will be from 4:00-6:00 p.m. Saturday, August 6, 2016 with a Military Honors services beginning at 6:00 p.m. at McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth. Cremation rites have been accorded. Memorials may be given to the Buchanan Center for the Arts Veterans Art Therapy Programming.