John "Jack" Albert Gilbert

Jack was predeceased by his loving wife of 63 years, Betty on September 14, 2013. He will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by his three children, Rick Gilbert (Joanne), Margot Bowes (Len) and Cathy Therrien (Paul), grandchildren Bryon (Chelsey), Kendra, Melissa (Billy) and Kevin, great-grandchildren, Caitlin and Maddox, and sister-in-law Lynn Hovey (Dick).

Jack was born in Toronto on January 7, 1924, the only child of Albert and Marjorie Gilbert. They moved several times during his childhood making homes in Vancouver, Winnipeg, and Calgary. Jack was a member of the Royal Canadian Air Force during WWII. After the war, he attended the University of British Columbia where he attained his Bachelor of Commerce Degree. He finally moved back to Winnipeg and lived on Stradbrook Street where he met Betty, “the girl next door,” and the love of his life. They married in 1950 and raised three children in River Heights. In later years, Jack and Betty enjoyed their home on the Assiniboine River in St. James and then finally moved to Sterling House where they made many wonderful friends.

After graduating from university, Jack started a successful, quality, greeting card company called, Gilbert Greeting Cards. He took pride in writing all the heartfelt, inspirational, and sometimes comical messages found within. His cards were carried in Hudson’s Bay and Birks stores across Canada. When it became increasingly difficult to compete with companies like Coutts and Hallmark, Jack began a very successful career as a manufacturer’s agent for ladies clothing which he enjoyed until he retired in 1989.

Music was one of Jack’s passions. He was a gifted pianist and enjoyed composing and playing popular and classical pieces, always filling our home with music. Even when macular degeneration took most of his sight, he continued to play by ear. Jack was a passionate photographer, capturing many special family moments and beautiful scenes in nature. He spent many hours in his darkroom bringing his images to life. Woodworking was another hobby Jack enjoyed. He loved making little animals and creatures that now decorate all our homes and gardens. Jack loved the outdoors and was happiest when he was spending time with his family at Victoria Beach, camping at Blue Lake or fishing at Paradise Campground in Minnesota.

A celebration of Jack’s life will take place on Wednesday, March 16, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. at Thomson "In the Park” Funeral Home, 1291 McGillivray Boulevard.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to a charity of your choice.