Gil was born March 1, 1944 in Beatrice, Nebraska, son of Ekkie and Maria Paben. He attended Beatrice High School where he graduated and subsequently completed construction trade school in Milford, Nebraska before moving to Colorado in 1966. He worked for Homes by Holz and Bartran Homes before launching Aspen Construction to build custom homes and then specialize in remodels.
When he wasn’t working, he enjoyed his kids and grandkids, camping, ATV’s, and his tractor. He was an active member of the National Association of Homebuilders and held various elected positions. As an 18-year survivor of cancer himself, he volunteered much of his time at the UCHealth Cancer Center in Fort Collins.
Survivors include his children Jeff (Laurie) Paben, Jennifer (Matt) Ruud, Rebecca (Nate) Bade, brothers Art (Kathie) Paben, Harold (Carol) Paben, and sisters Pauline (Gary) Eisenberg, and Karen Gray. He is also survived by 7 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents Ekkie T. Paben and Maria (Frerichs) Paben and his brother-in-law Tom Gray.
A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, August 10, 2022 at 1:00pm at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran church. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the UCHealth Cancer Center, 2121 E Harmony Rd, Suite 170, Fort Collins, CO 80528.
