Carlys Jean Gilbert

Born Carlys Bietz on January 6, 1944 to Ruth (Jonas) & Alvin Bietz. Grew up with younger sister Pamela in North Dakota alongside beloved grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Survived by children Corey, Will, and Wendy Gilbert, grandchildren Dylan & Janie Gilbert; sister Pamela Farrell & brother in law Rick Farrell, precious nieces, many treasured cousins throughout the country, and numerous cherished friends.

In the early 1950’s family moved to Hollydale, CA then eventually settled in the Colonial Heights neighborhood in Sacramento, CA. Attended Mark Twain elementary & Peter Lassen middle school. At that time joined Girl Scout troop 199 with sister Pamela, under shared leadership of Mae Thorp and their mother Ruth.

Devoted Girl Scout for many years, enjoyed learning life skills, performing dances and cultural exhibitions, participating in civic & community enrichment projects, and trips to numerous state parks exploring nature, sailing boats, and camping. Dad, Alvin, was a great help to all the girls, teaching them to build camp fires safely among other outdoor skills. Most memorable trip was a week-long boat cruise to the Santa Barbara Islands, a dream come true for all. Highlight of scouting years were the lifelong friendships that endured throughout time!

Graduated from Hiram Johnson High School Class of 1961 and attended Sacramento City College before marrying and having first a daughter, and twins a year later (son & daughter)!

Went to work in 1972 for the State of California in various departments as a single mother. Over many years while working, pursued more education at various Sacramento colleges, and then at Sonoma State University to obtain Bachelor’s degree fulfilling a lifelong dream of becoming an archaeologist.

Most enjoyable archaeology experiences were digging under buildings in Old Sacramento with college professor and fellow students to unearth the city’s history, preserve artifacts, and share exhibits with the public. Worked at the state’s lab in West Sacramento to help catalog items found on historical sites. Employed as an archaeologist for several years at CA Dept of Forestry helping to identify and preserve Native American Indian sites near logging roads before an early retirement.

Greatest joys were becoming a grandmother twice, maintaining a beautifully kept garden of flowers and trees; study of photography while taking thousands of pictures; travel to Greece to see ancient wonders; supporting indigenous culture’s artisans; searching for perfect teddy bears at thrift/estate sales (collection totaled over 1,000 but was downsized with favorites gifted to Shriner’s Children’s Hospital); attending local artist showcase events; self expression through writing, poetry and art.

In lieu of flowers, simply celebrate the life of Carlys and honor her legacy: grow flowers to beautify the world, plant a tree, get outside at sunset, be amongst the beauty of Fall’s changing colors, take a photo to capture a significant moment, support native cultures & their peoples, make a donation to a conservation organization, buy art from a local artist, keep family & friendships close with calls or cards, adopt a cat in need, pursue a dream.

Special thanks, with the deepest gratitude, to the UCD Hospice staff for their excellent service and care provided to our mother and family.