Delbert A. Gilbert (1938-2020)

GILBERT, NIELSON, SCHADE

Posted By: Ken Wright (email)
Date: 5/23/2021 at 17:43:29

Mr. Delbert A. Gilbert, 82, of rural Delmar, died early Tuesday morning, Oct. 27, 2020, at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City.

Delbert Arthur Gilbert, lovingly known as “Doc” was born Jan. 30, 1938, to Arthur and Anne (Nielson) Gilbert at rural Ventura during a blizzard. He lived his childhood in New York and Michigan, finally settling back in Ventura. Del was a graduate of Ventura High School where he was a four-letter athlete in football, basketball, track and baseball. He set the state record in the track and field events of half-mile and mile. Del served in the Army as a Cook for several years. He attended Waldorf University in Forest City and received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History at Wartburg College in Waverly. Del went on to receive a Master of Arts Degree in Education from the University of Iowa. On May 27, 1961, Del married Dorothy Schade in Lowden. He was employed by Central Community Schools, DeWitt for his entire career. Del started as a coach, taught History, was Vice Principal and retired as Principal of the middle school in 1997 following 37 years of service.

He was a lifetime member of the National Education Association and National Association of Secondary School Principals. Del was as a former member of the Iowa Alumni Association and American Legion. He enjoyed traveling, especially to Branson, Missouri.

Surviving are his wife, Dorothy; children, Jerry (Donna) Gilbert of Antioch, Illinois, Michael (Gayle) Gilbert and Holly (Scott) Hall of Delmar and Mark (Brandy) Gilbert of Atkins; ten grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; a brother, Duane “Butch” (Patricia) Gilbert of Clear Lake; a sister, Diane (Gary) Carlson of Blooming Prairie, Minnesota; nieces and nephews.

A private Family Service and Military Rites will be held at Rock Island National Cemetery.

Condolences may be expressed at www.schultzfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements are in the care of Schultz Funeral Home, DeWitt.