Gilbert, 84, died December 20, 2008, in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He was born October 3, 1924 and was a member of the Brethren Church. Gil was drafted into Civilian Public Service in 1943 from Elkhart, Indiana, where his occupation was listed as a student. He jumped at McCall during the 1944-45 seasons and got seven fire jumps in addition to his training jumps.

He graduated from Manchester College in 1949 and got his master's and doctorate from Indiana University. Gilbert was a high school principal and assistant school superintendent for 30 years and also taught at Kent State University.