Cletus W. Gilbert, 79, of Coldwater, passed away Wednesday, July 5, 2017 in East Leroy from a long term illness.
Cletus was born December 29, 1937 in Battle Creek, MI to Ivan & Eva (Cutchall) Gilbert. He lived in Union City for 55 years before moving to Coldwater. He attended Union City School and graduating in 1956. He married Janet E. Swick the love of his life, on August 16, 1958 in Tekonsha; they were married almost 59 years.
Cletus worked at the former Duo Coach/Star Mobile Home Factory in Union City for ten years and then worked as a brake press operator at Clark Equipment Company in Battle Creek for the last twenty years of his career before retirement when Clark Equipment Company closed in Battle Creek.
Cletus was a member of the Burlington Church of God. In his retirement years he enjoyed fishing with the grandkids, grocery shopping, always proud of finding “good buys”, he also enjoyed garage sales. Cletus also enjoyed time spent with the family and friends and he loved to play cards.
Cletus is survived by his wife Janet, his children Deanna (Terry) Hyliard of Bronson, Debbie (Mark) Richar of Coldwater, Dean (Kami) Gilbert of Coldwater, Dan (Erin) Gilbert of Quincy, his grandchildren Bryce Gilbert, Tyler Hyliard, Chelsea Hyliard, Michelle (John) Massey, Bryan Richar, Brandon Richar, Andrew Richar, Kaylee Richar, Philip Fast, Shelby Gilbert, great grandchildren Avery & Olivia Massey and sister Carolyn Rarick of East Leroy. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Douglas Gilbert.
The visitation will be Sunday, July 9, 2017 from 2-7:00 PM at Dutcher Funeral Home in Coldwater. The Funeral service will be Monday, July 10, 2017 at 1:00 PM at the Burlington Church of God in Burlington with Pastor Phil Palmer officiating, Pastor David Rails & Pastor Wayne Halbleib assisting. Interment will follow at Riverside Cemetery in Union City.
Memorials may be directed to the Burlington Church of God or St. Jude’s Children Hospital. www.dutcherfh.com