Thomas "Tom" K. Gilbert's Obituary
Thomas K. Gilbert, age 86, of Fruitport passed away peacefully at home on Friday, June 3, 2022, with his family at his side. Tom was born January 15, 1936, in Muskegon to the late Charles and Sarah Grace (Duff) Gilbert, LaPres. On August 24, 1963, he married Marlene Kay Witkowski, after the two met as fellow wedding attendants. Tom was employed for 35 years in the engineering department at Teledyne Continental Motors, before retiring in 1989. He continued his education and opened Gilbert CAD, servicing companies throughout West Michigan.
Tom is lovingly remembered by his wife of 59 years, Marlene who survives him along with their four children: Robert (Roberta) Gilbert of Holland and Florida, Pamela (Thomas) McCarthy of Grand Haven, Thomas (Jenny) Gilbert of Fruitport and Kristen (Roger Brandel) Stepke of Fruitport; ten grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; his sister-in-law, Dorothy Gilbert of Colorado; brother-in-law, Patrick Witkowski; and many loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; stepfather, Cedaire LaPres; three brothers: Paul, Don and Jack Gilbert; and two sisters, Ruth Bodnar and Mary Ann Hoffman.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, June 9, 2022, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church with Rev. Norm Droski as celebrant. Friends may meet the family one hour prior to the mass. Memorials to St. Mary’s Catholic Church or Harbor Hospice are appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to The Spring Lake Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 213 E. Savidge St., Spring Lake, MI 49456. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at www.sytsemafh.com.
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