Robert "Bob" Gilbert

Robert Bennett Gilbert
Robert "Bob" Gilbert, 68, of Sibley, MO returned home to his Heavenly Father on July 5, 2022. A memorial service will be held at 3pm, July 17, 2022, at Buckner Restoration Branch in Independence, MO.
Robert Bennett Gilbert, "BG", was born March 7, 1954, to Charles and Katherine Gilbert in Independence, Missouri. Bob was large in stature from birth weighing in at almost 13 pounds and 25 inches long. He spent his childhood days on their family farm in Sibley, Missouri, which instilled an incredible work ethic and a love of the simple country life in him from an early age. Bob was an active member of the Boy Scouts of America, which introduced him to his favorite past time, fly fishing. This passion would follow him throughout his life as he loved spending time in God's creation fishing. Capitalizing on that height God blessed him with at birth, Bob played basketball at Fort Osage High School where he graduated in 1972. After graduation, Bob continued to play basketball in college while attending Highland Junior College in Kansas and then Arkansas State University. His all-time career high scoring game ended with Bob tallying 37 points, which was back in the day before they had the three-point line. In 1975, he married his other half, the love of his life, Janet Butterworth. Shortly after marriage, Bob was converted to the Restoration Gospel and was baptized just a few months later. At the age of 18, Bob began his career working for Butterworth Electric during the summers. Eventually, this summertime job turned into full time employment and culminated with Bob running the company for a total of 50 years. Over that time, Bob and Janet started a family and were blessed with three daughters, Aimee, Milee and Heidee. Bob adored his girls, his family and cherished every moment of being a "girl dad". Bob and Janet made their way back to the family farm in Sibley, where they created a beautiful sanctuary for the last 17 years while being close to their family and grandchildren. He was a lifelong servant of the Lord and a member of the Buckner Restoration Branch where he served in many capacities over the years. He was first called to the office of Deacon, where he served until he was ordained as an Elder in 1983. Bob also served as Pastor for the branch for many years. His heart's desire was always to "win more souls to Christ". Even up until the day he was called home he always said, "I will never give up on the Lord." This giant of a man radiated the love and gentle kindness of Christ to all who met him.
Left behind to cherish Bob's memory is his loving wife, Janet; three daughters, Aimee Brown (Tony) of Sibley, Milee Gage (Stuart) of Blue Springs, and Heidee Hakes (Matt) of Sibley; six grandchildren, Lola Brown, Zoe Brown, Josie Brown, Hadlee Hakes, Hudson Hakes and Crosby Hakes; four sisters, Barbara and Dawna Gilbert of Independence, Anita Colvin (Dave) of Sequim, Washington, and Janet Dellinger of North Kansas City. He is preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Katherine Gilbert and father-in-law Kenny Butterworth. In lieu of flowers and to continue Bob's legacy of giving, contributions can be made to Center Place Restoration School at 819 W Waldo Ave, Independence, MO 64050. Online condolences may be expressed at www.speakschapel.com