Merle C. Gilbert Sr.
Parkman – Merle C. Gilbert Sr. 78, passed away after illness at EMMC February 8, 2017. Born in Dexter the 7th child of 8 to Thomas A. Gilbert and Mary Nathalie (Jock) Gilbert on November 8, 1938. Merle after the 7th grade went on to work at the potato farms, for a short time at Hardwood Products and then went on to build his own business Gilbert Logging. He spent 58 years married to the love of his life Jeannette (Cullicutt) Gilbert and raising their five children. He was a Loving and Devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather and loyal friend. Merle loved being outdoors, hunting and was well known for his dancing skills along with the infamous parties he used to host with his loving wife. Merle was a compassionate man who was known to always be there to support and help not only his family but neighbors and friends. He would help his wife decorate their home inside and out for every holiday, especially Christmas and Halloween in such grand display as to draw folks from all around just to take a look at their handiwork. He always put family first setting the example for the rest. He was caregiver for his wife Jeannette through her battle with Dementia with a love and devotion beyond compare. He was always there with love and support in any way he could for his 5 children and their spouses, 14 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren. He deeply valued his lifelong friendship with Fred Tyler who always knew Merle as “Nuni.” Merle was deeply loved, respected and will be greatly missed. Merle was predeceased by parents Thomas and Nathalie; brothers Marshall Gilbert, Wendell Gilbert, Milton “Mitt” Gilbert, Milan “Poggy” Gilbert, Russell “Sonny” Gilbert; sister Diane “Poppy” Gilbert; wife Jeannette and son Millage Gilbert. He is survived by his children son Merle Gilbert Jr., wife Lori; son Calvin Gilbert, wife Julie; daughter Cindy (Gilbert) Westberry, husband Paul; and son Hartley Gilbert, wife Kimberly; daughter-in-law Tina Gilbert; sister Thomasina “Tommi” (Gilbert)Blanchard; along with many nieces and nephews. A potluck Celebration of Life will be held February 18, 2017 from 1:00-4:00 at the VFW on Cedar St. Dexter, ME.
