Robert "Mike" Gilkey

Robert Michael “Mike” Gilkey was born to the late Robert Gilkey and La Flora (Doshier Gilkey) Strack, on September 18, 1952 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Mike was the oldest of four children. Mike joined the air force during the Vietnam war serving overseas in Spain as a firefighter. He ended his air force career in 1973 with the rank of sergeant. He was proud of the time he served and being a veteran was a high honor for him.

Mike after the air force met his wife of 47 years, Iris (Dillard) Gilkey. They married on January 10, 1975. They truly were each other’s person, and he is united with her again. They raised their only daughter Pamela Mae Gilkey in La Vernia, Texas. Mike and Iris welcomed the light of their lives when they became grandparents to granddaughter, La Nora violet Gonzalez on September 5, 2014.

Mike is known as a larger-than-life character. A super independent fun jokester while embodying the Marlboro man. He has many loves to include gambling, Fishing At the coast, gardening/growing, eating good food, smoking and spending time with family to include his dog, Samuel Adams. He had the largest heart and would help anyone.

Mike will be dearly missed by all who loved him deeply. he is preceded in death by his wife, Iris and parents Robert Gilkey, La Flora Gilkey and Marvin Strack. He is survived by His daughter Pami, his granddaughter La Nora, his brothers William Gilkey, Andrew Gilkey and sister Elizabeth Ann Henson (Gilkey).

Visitation and services will be held on May 6, 2026 11:00pm-12:00pm Visitation and a 12:00pm-1:00pm Service at Sunset Memorial Park and Funeral Home, 1701 Austin Highway, San Antonio, Texas 78218. Interment to follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.