Frank Leonard Gilbert

Frank Leonard Gilbert, age 84, of Flat Rock, Michigan, passed away on Monday, February 9, 2026, at Corewell Hospital in Trenton, Michigan.

Born on July 7, 1941, in Pontiac, Michigan, at St. Joseph's Mercy Hospital, he was the son of Donald and Lavina (Papple) Gilbert. He graduated from Waterford High School.

Frank owned and operated Gilbert Landscape Service / Gilbert Brickscape Landscape, taking over the business from his father and proudly continuing the family tradition. Over the years, he built a strong reputation as a dedicated landscaper who valued his customers and the relationships he formed with them before retiring.

Frank loved watching old movies, especially westerns. He was someone who truly loved to laugh. He always enjoyed telling a good joke and kidding around with everyone. He liked walking his dogs and, in his own humorous way, would even say he enjoyed seeing all of his doctors. More than anything, he loved cheering people up. So the next time you think of him, smile, knowing that would make him happiest.

Frank loved kids, loved animals, loved God, and loved his country. Though he never served in the military, he would have gladly done so. He was deeply invested in politics and was a proud patriot, often wearing American flags on his hats and clothing. He had many beloved pets over the years, including birds, dogs, and cats. He especially enjoyed being outdoors, tending to flowers and trees, the very work that defined his life and livelihood.

Frank was preceded in death by his father, Donald Gilbert; his mother, Lavina Gilbert; his stepdaughter, Susan Spence; and his sister, Donna J. Bowers.

He is survived by his partner, Patricia Bryant; his daughter, Kimberly (Jon) Karinen; his grandchild, Ryan Karinen; his step-grandchildren, Michael Helton, Anthony Helton, and Rita VerHage (DJ, her husband); his great step-grandchildren, Alayna and Adelyn VerHage; his brother, Larry Gilbert; his sister, Sandra L. Fitzpatrick, sister in law Rita (Arlen) Fadely.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Friends for Animals of Metro Detroit 16121 Reckinger Rd., Dearborn MI 48126, or any animal shelter of your choice. Also, a tree may be planted in his memory.