Michael L. Gilbert

Michael Lee Gilbert, age 60 of River Falls, passed away February 5, 2015 at his residence. Michael was born July 14, 1954 in Redfield, SD, the son of James and Marquerite (Polzin) Gilbert. He graduated from Fridley High School, the Class of 1972. Mike furthered his education at the University of Wisconsin – River Falls. Mike worked as a laborer for the Canadian Pacific Railroad for 27 years. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force Reserve, as a Senior Master Sergeant Loadmaster, retiring in 2006 after 33 years. Mike’s life was blessed with three children, Sean, Leah and Daniel. He was united in marriage on February 14, 2003 in Crystal Falls, Michigan to his best friend and love of his life, Lisa Bader Hedman.

Outside of work and his military service, Mike treasured his time outdoors, golfing, trap shooting, snow shoeing, and tending to his many vegetable gardens. Mike was fond of old tractors, especially International Harvester Farmalls. He was a devoted Green Bay Packer fan who took great joy in cheering on his team in person and in ”the only bar in Wisconsin you can smoke in”” – his shop. Michael and Lisa enjoyed traveling the world together both with the military and after retirement. He was a loving husband, devoted father, grandfather, brother and a kind, considerate friend. Mike had a ready smile and a quick wit. He was an avid reader, who never lost his love for learning.

Mike is survived by his wife, Lisa; children, Sean Gilbert, Leah (Shawn) Gilbert and Daniel Gilbert; 3 grandchildren, Kayla, Nathaniel and Shawn Jr. Wells; 6 siblings, James (Judy) Gilbert, Linda (Jack) Hoppe, Marilyn (Terry) Hofer, Barb (Charlie) Meyer, Phyllis Gilbert and Lonnie (Mike) Mullowney; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Eldon and Shirley Bader; many nieces and nephews; and will be sorely missed by his best friends Helper and Elsa. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A Gathering of Family and Friends will be held from 1:00 – 3:00 PM, with a 3:00 PM Remembrance Service Wednesday, February 11, 2015 at the O’Connell Family Funeral Home, 520 S. 11th St., Hudson. Military honors will immediately follow the service at the funeral home.