Gilbert, Gary Earl

Gary Earl Gilbert, 52, of Cedar Rapids, died Thursday, May 26, 2011, at home. His body was cremated by Cedar Memorial.

Surviving are daughters, Brooke (Gabe) Chamberlin, Cedar Rapids, and Melissa Gilbert, California; stepfather, Don Jensen, Anamosa; siblings, Vianna (Dave) Davis of Gilbert, Ariz., Carolyn Gilbert of Cedar Rapids, Butch (Anita) Gilbert and Kathy (Phillip) Dirks, both of Anamosa, Laureen (Dellar) Davis of Janesville and Colleen (Dennis) Dvorak of Cedar Rapids; stepsiblings, Roger Allen (Sue) Jensen of Cedar Rapids, Melvin (Mary) Jensen and Steve (Diane) Jensen, both of Marion, Terry (Lisa) Jensen of San Antonio, Texas, and Tony Jensen of Cedar Rapids; and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father in January 1979; his mother in May 2009; and his stepbrother, Rod Jensen.

Gary Earl Gilbert was born April 20, 1959, in Anamosa, Iowa, son of Louis Earl Gilbert and Jeanne Beverly Gilbert Jensen. He worked construction and was a member of Local Carpenters Union 308.

His life on earth was troubled and filled with constant strife, worries and sadness. His constant battle with alcoholism was a never-ending struggle that he just couldn't beat.

Be still my son, brother and friend as your battle is over. God has lifted you up in His heavenly blanket; you are now in the arms of Jesus.