John R. Gilbert

I remember when John Gilbert came to visit W.W.U. to perform his one-man monologue/drama: "Father Damien." That was in 1981 or so, and I still remember being mesmerized by his performance. A few years later I worked in the box-office at the old Intiman Theatre. John's performances were a delight, especially the seaon when they performed Strinberg's "A Dream Play." Once, I asked him to read my favorite Robert Frost poem, just because I wanted to hear a fine actor read a lovely poem out loud....

Too soon, way too soon. John was one of the good guys. He never waivered in his commitment to justice. I learned so much from him. I knew when we met at age 16 that he was an extraordinary human being. I will always cherish our times together over the past 50 years.

Jill Johnson (aka Jill Gilbert (1961-70)

I knew John over coffee at Caffe Ladro. I will my my conversations with him.

I am greatly saddened by the news of John's death. I was a good friend of his in college. He was a wonderful actor and passionately outspoken about the things that mattered to him. I wish there were a memorial service for him--because I think Noah would be inspired and astonished at the ways in which John positively affected others.

I thought you had gone to mexico, John - I had no idea you were still here in the northwest and now you are gone entirely and sadness does not cover what I feel.

Your mere presence and honest voice was a warm kindness in this dark world and even darker profession and you will always be remembered for it.