Robert M. Gilsdorf

GILSDORF Robert M. Robert M. Gilsdorf, died at the age of 44 on January 13, 2008, nearly ten years after being diagnosed with brain cancer. His strength, dignity, and grace in the face of the daunting challenges of his disease were an inspiration to all who knew him. Rob was born April 12, 1963, to Larry and Anne (Hardman) Gilsdorf. He was preceded in death by his father, Larry; infant sister, Jennifer Lynn; grandparents, Ed and Jean Hardman and Clem and Bernadette Gilsdorf. As a teenager, Rob enjoyed time sailing with his family and won several awards in Junior Sail competitions. He attended Central Catholic High School through his junior year and graduated from Libby High School in 1981. Rob was an entrepreneur and owned several business throughout his lifetime including Advantage Housekeeping Services, Robert Michael's Hair Salon, Accents of Art Gallery and was employed as the Assistant Director of Shriner Real Estate School. He was a founding board member of Equality Toledo and was recognized by the Wood County Democratic Party for his outstanding contributions. He was a dedicated friend to many and loved his pets dearly. He is survived by his partner and best friend of 22 years, Kenneth Dymond; mother, Anne Gilsdorf; brother, Larry Jr. (Pam) Gilsdorf; sisters, Lorie (Jim) Kravetsky, Katie (Jim) Roach, Karan (Ernie Spaulding) Berman and nephews, Larry III (Kayla) and Michael Gilsdorf, Brian (Mary) Roach, Tommy Berman and his nieces, Samantha Berman and Madison Spaulding. Rob and his family give special thanks to the kind and personal care provided by Dr. David Brown and his nursing staff as well as the staff at Hospice of Northwest Ohio in Perrysburg. The outpouring of his many friends who volunteered their time to help in Rob's care will always be remembered and is a reflection of the many hearts and lives that Rob touched through his great sense of humor and compassion. A celebration of his life will be held at Toledo Sailing Club in Walbridge Park on Sunday, January 20, 2008, from 1-3 p.m. Contributions in Robert's name may be made to the Equality Toledo's Safe School Project, Hospice of Northwest Ohio, or Toledo Children's Hospital Hematology/ Oncology Unit.