Daniel Davis Gilbert

Daniel Davis Gilbert, beloved brother, uncle, and friend, died on April 1, 2025 at the age of 73. He was born and raised in Stamford, CT, the son of Madeline P. and Benjamin D. Gilbert, and last resided in Vienna, VA. Mr. Gilbert graduated from Culver Military Academy in 1969 and from Claremont Men's College in 1973 with a B.A. in economics and literature. After college, Mr. Gilbert worked in film as a floor manager for NFB Channel 34 News, property manager for Cinema 35 on a feature film, and bookkeeper for Dury Associate. In 1976, Mr. Gilbert moved to Virginia to work for Mutual Broadcasting System. He started his own company, Gilbert Enterprises, Inc., in 1977, and worked as a private investor, commodities trader, consultant, and venture capitalist until his retirement in 2017.

Mr. Gilbert grew up sailing on the Long Island Sound and traveling with his parents. These passions remained for life and expanded to include snorkeling and reenacting. In 1986, Mr. Gilbert met an interesting group of locals reenacting Scottish Highlanders from one of Bonnie Prince Charlie's regiments in the infamous Forty-Five Rebellion that ended at Culloden in 1746. Intrigued by the history, he joined the Appin Regiment and completed the Highland Charge with vigor through 2024.

Mr. Gilbert finished building a fantasy pool complex, dubbed 'The Grotto,' in 2011, and invited his friends to enjoy it in the summertime. Over the years, the gathering grew to 10-50 people meeting every Tuesday evening for fun and frolic. Philip Cromwell remembers, "It was an eclectic gathering of people sharing food, drink, and ideas with joy and humor. Our dear friend was at the center of it; his generosity and joie de vivre made an impression on everyone who ever attended."

Mr. Gilbert's passing leaves a big hole in the hearts of four surviving siblings: Mary Gilbert, Racey Gilbert, Lee Gilbert, and Sue Gilbert; 12 nieces and nephews; and multitudes of friends who considered him to be their "best." More than 150 loved ones gathered over a beautiful August 2025 weekend to celebrate and remember Mr. Gilbert at The Grotto, fulfilling his final wish for "one helluva wake."