Monica Dean Gilbertson

1946 - 2021

Oct. 25, 1946 - July 31, 2021 Monica Dean Gilbertson, n‚e Batters, recently succumbed to the debilitating effects of Parkinson's Disease after a courageous battle of several years. Monica is survived by her son Shawn Harrison, brother Brian "Bucky" Batters and his wife Joyce, brother-in-law Lonnie Gilbertson, and countless friends and extended family members. Monica was the first child of World War II Navy veteran Everett Batters, and Dorothy Batters, n‚e Robson. Being born and raised in Santa Monica, Monica was affectionately known as both "Monica from Santa Monica" as well as "Monkey", a nickname placed upon her by her father, an avid sports fan with a soft spot for the often-colorful nicknames from the world of sports. A graduate of Santa Monica High School, like her parents before her and many other family members, she would go on to attend Santa Monica City College whilst working part time. In 1968 she would marry for the first time and move to what was then Canoga Park, the fruit of her first nuptials would be her sole child, Shawn. Following a divorce in the mid 1970s, she would be a devoted single mother working as a grocery clerk, a career for which she'd dedicate herself to for over 30 years. In the late 80s, she would be introduced to Donnie Gilbertson by her lifetime friend, Beverly Jacob. Donnie "Gil", a career navy man would become the love of her life. They would marry in 1987 and be inseparable until his premature passing in 2000. When Monica and Donnie weren't pampering their beloved beagles, they would devote much of their time following his retirement to the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2805, Canoga Park. Where she would take on numerous leadership roles with the Ladies Auxiliary. The duties she enjoyed most were the philanthropic endeavors. The organization's Make a Difference Day embodied her unselfish nature allowing her to touch many lives, despite living on a modest pension. In the years after Donnie's passing, she'd continue her involvement with the post until the combination of a horrid fall and the effects of Parkinson's would force her to be house bond whilst being assisted by an incredible team of caregivers (Benita, Lynette, Fiona, Gila, & Susan) who certainly added years to her life with their loving care. Monica, a devout Lutheran and member of Shepherd of the Valley, was laid to rest alongside Donnie at Oakwood Memorial Park in Chatsworth where the two have been reunited in the Kingdom of Heaven.