Charles Dawson Gilbert, 83, of Waco passed away peacefully at home May 5, 2022, after a lengthy illness.
Visitation: 4pm – 7pm Tuesday, May 10th at Lake Shore Funeral Home Chapel. A second visitation, for one hour prior to the service Wednesday, May 11th.
Funeral Service: 2pm Wednesday, May 11th at Lake Shore Funeral Home Chapel. CLICK HERE to watch the Live Stream of the Service. Burial with military honors to follow at Smith Bend-Coon Creek Cemetery.
He was born January 23, 1939 in Marble Falls, Texas, the fourth of seven children born to Wilbur and Margie (Morrison) Gilbert. He grew up in Austin and graduated from Stephen F. Austin High School in 1957. After a brief time playing semi-pro baseball in the area, he joined the United States Air Force. While stationed at Reese AFB outside of Lubbock, he met Wanda, his life-long love at the Hi-Di-Ho Drive-In. He served overseas at Wheelus Air Base near Tripoli, Libya but returned home in time to be married May 7, 1960. Following his active duty service he attended Texas Tech University, graduating in 1966 with a degree in accounting. He was a member of the Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants for 50 years. In 1972 he moved to Waco when he accepted the position of Chief Financial Officer for McDonald Automotive Supply. Years later, he became Vice President and Financial Controller for Lochridge Priest. Following his retirement in 2005, he and Wanda spent their time gardening, traveling, and enjoying family.
He was preceded in death by his mother and father; three sisters, Juanita Fay Hazlett, Linda Kay Brisco, and Cynthia Rae Johnson.
Charles is survived by Wanda his loving bride of 62 years; son, Phil (Jennifer) Gilbert of SC; daughter, Gayle Knutson of Waco; four grandchildren, Logan Gilbert, Caitlyn (John) Bow, Spencer Gilbert, Erin Knutson (Carlos Geeslin); seven great-grandchildren, Caleb, Cameron, Easton, Corbin, Clara, Jackson, and Michael; sisters, Jeane Price of San Angelo, Myrna Myhre of Georgetown, Don Gilbert of Granite Shoals, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Memorials may be made to Western Heights Baptist Church or the Alzheimer’s Association.
Place of Service: Lake Shore Funeral Home Chapel , 5201 Steinbeck Bend; Waco, TX 76708
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Wanda and family. My deepest condolences at the loss of your loved one. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Blessings. Herman and Joy
What a precious tribute video of his wonderful life and family.
Mrs. Gilbert, Phil, Jennifer and rest of the family, I am so very sorry for the loss of Mr. Gilbert. I know he will be missed terribly by all. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Much love and prayers for all the family. He was a good man. Love, Pat and Linda
So sorry for your loss. He was such a sweet kind man and will be missed. Our prayers are with you Wanda and the entire family.
My love and prayers are with you and family
Wanda and Gail, Kathy and I have been praying for you and family since being made aware of yours’ and Bud’s journey. He who has brought you through to today is faithful to keep you in His strong right arm as He has transitioned Bud to his home with Jesus. Love, comfort and peace surround your celebration of Bud’s life. So thankful for our early years at Baylor with you both! Much love.
Dear Gilbert family, The Baylor Scott and White Waco Hospice family would like to give you our deepest condolences with our thoughts and prayers! We still care and we are still here for you! God bless you!