GILBERT, JAMES DOUGLAS

James (Jim) Douglas Gilbert, in his 78th year of Elmvale, Ontario, passed away peacefully in his sleep on April 23, 2024, after spending a wonderful evening with his wife and children.

Jim led a rich and adventurous life, achieving numerous career and personal milestones at a young age. He grew up working the family farm alongside his 7 siblings. Jim made his mark in the print industry with his strong work ethic, establishing successful businesses and long lasting relationships over the years. By far his proudest accomplishment was a large and loving family alongside his wife Ruth.

Jim's hunt camp adventures, annual fishing trips, and Friday night poker with his buddy’s will be a topic of conversation for years to come. He could always be counted on for a good prank and a laugh. With open arms, a welcoming smile and witty banter his kindness and generosity will forever hold a special place in the hearts of those he knew. He passes along a legacy of family, love, and storytelling.

Jim leaves behind his beloved wife Ruth Gilbert. He is predeceased by cherished daughters Bonnie (Leo) Stephens and Sherri -Ann Gaudon (Billy). Survived by loving children Darlene (Mike) Pearson, Arlene (Mark) Elliott, Liz (Bruce) Jones, April O’Leary (Steve), Gloria (Rino) Stornelli, Shawn O’Leary (Stephanie). Many grandchildren Melissa (Jason), Amanda (Brett), Jesse (Maddie), Nichole (Jake), Jimmy (Erica), Michael (Nicole), Kenny, Julia, Adam, Marcus, Branden (Stephanie), Alexandra (Mitch), Shayla, Rhys, Jocelyn (Charles), Robbie (Megan), Anna (Scott), Wesley. Great grandchildren Mya, Ava, Hailey, Charlee, Maxine, Emilia, Maggie, Brynn, Hailey, Cameron, Sadie, Mason.

Predeceased by siblings Etta (John) Maxim, Charlie Gilbert, Gladys (Kinnard) Agar. Survived by siblings Evelyn (predeceased Fred) Harpell, John (Sharon) Gilbert, Sharon (Doug) Adamson, Valerie (Darl) Hebner, sisters and brothers in law, and many nieces and nephews.

May Jim's spirit rest in peace, surrounded by the love and warmth he shared with so many throughout his remarkable life.

A visiation will be held at the Lynn-Stone Funeral Home in Elmvale from 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm on Friday, April 26, 2024 and on Saturday, April 27 from 10 am - 11 am.  A funeral service will be held in the chapel on Saturday, April 27 at 11 am.  

Interment Elmvale Cemetery.

Memorial donations in Jim's memory may be made to the Elmvale Food Bank.