Fred L. Gilbert

Fred L. Gilbert, 88, passed away Sunday, August 13, 2023 in Rockford, Illinois. Born May 21, 1935 in Hastings, Nebraska, son of Herbert Lester and Goldie (McKinzie) Gilbert. He married his late wife, Nancy Gilbert, in Appleton, WI on April 4th of 1959 and moved to Rockford a decade later, in 1969. Fred went on to have a successful career as a salesman for several businesses in the area. Fred retired from Amcore Bank. In his free time, he enjoyed playing horseshoes at Dahlquist Park and was an avid fisherman. Fred enjoyed spending time at Don Carters Bowling Alley watching his grandchildren bowl. Fred really enjoyed his sweets, he rarely left home without them. At times Fred would pull cookies from his pocket and smile.

He is survived by his loving children, Debra Palmer (Kenny Swafford), Mary (John) Auerswald, and Lee (Jennifer) Gilbert; grandchildren, Kenny (Cari) Miller, Valerie Moderhack, Dixie and Charles Swafford, Mikayla (Brandon) Miracle, Karl Auerswald, Wynter Gilbert, Mia (Tyler) Fincutter, Damen Morgenroth, Dakota Alexander; great grandchildren, Casey and Chloe Jo Miller, Layla Swafford, Ken Parnell, Connor and Adaleigh Swafford, River and Raelynn Schewe, Shelby and Dylan Grizzard, Leah Fincutter, and soon to be born, Ella May Miracle. As well as multiple nieces, nephews and friends, Linda and Len Hertzing, Doug and Joanne Franks and family, and the “Pit Crew”. A special thank you to Myra for spoiling Fred over the years. Fred is predeceased by his parents, Herbert and Goldie (McKinzie) Gilbert.

Memorial service will held at 2:00pm on Saturday, August 19th, 2023 at First Lutheran Church, 225 S 3rd St, Rockford. Visitation from 1:00 to 2:00 pm in the church. Desserts and coffee to follow. To send online condolences and share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com