Gary E. Gilbert

Gary Gilbert, 84, was peacefully ushered into the loving arms of Jesus on January 5, 2026, surrounded by his three children. Gary was born and raised in Perry, New York, April 17, 1941, to the most devoted parents, Dorothy Lucinda and Forrest Gilbert. He was the eldest of three siblings and is survived by his younger brother, Ronald Gilbert, and sister, Sally (Gilbert) Bowles.

At the age of 18, Gary enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he proudly served his country, including two tours in Vietnam. He spent most of his military career working in communications. Following his retirement from the Air Force, Gary embarked on a successful second career in computer programming and computer servicing.

While stationed at Moffett Air Force Base in California, Gary met the love of his life, Jaclynn Ann Potts. He often joked that he told her he was going to marry her on their very first date. True to his words, the two eloped just three weeks later, keeping their marriage a secret for years. They later “remarried” in a ceremony surrounded by family and friends on September 7, 1963. Gary and Jackie shared nearly 60 years of marriage until her passing in 2021.

Gary and Jackie raised their three children in Aurora, Colorado, while Gary completed his military career at Buckley Air Force Base. In retirement, they fulfilled a lifelong dream of traveling together across the country in their motor home. Eventually, they chose to settle near their children and grandchildren, spending the past 20 years in Limon. They were deeply grateful for their landlords, Rich and Donna Metcalf, who became treasured friends, and faithfully looked out for them.

Gary quickly became an enthusiastic Badger fan and never missed an opportunity to attend his grandchildren’s events. He was a proud and devoted Papa to Amber (Nick) Garside; Amanda (Chris) Pahls, Heather (Bo) Randolph, Bethany (deceased), Lucas (Natalie) Taylor; and Kory, Makenzie, & Drey Tacha. He was also blessed with 15 great-grandchildren.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Forrest and Dorothy Gilbert; his son-in-law, Rick Taylor; and his granddaughter, Bethany Taylor. He is survived by his children: Fritz (Kim Clymer) Gilbert; Melanie Taylor; and Cindy (Brad) Tacha.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on February 1, 2026, at Lighthouse Worship Center, 630 E. Avenue, Limon, Co. with refreshments to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to First National Bank of Limon in care of the Gary Gilbert Memorial.