Obituary of Henry Nelson Gilbert

Henry "Hank" Nelson Gilbert of Brookside Community Apts., 301 West Henley St., passed away Wednesday October 10, 2012 at his home. Mr. Gilbert was born July 4, 1917, the son of Glen and Mabel Gilbert, in Perry, N.Y. On December 31, 1970, in Ft. Myers, Fla. he married his wife of 41 years, Evelyn Vansteenburg, who survives. After graduation Hank attended a trade school specializing in Tool and Die manufacturing. Hank later owned and operated "Jet Tool & Die Co." of Rochester, in partnership with his brother "Skip". Hank was known as a talented, hard working man who loved life. He enjoyed traveling, camping, golf, bowling, and playing "euchre". He also was particularly fond of discussions in both the political and religious realms. An avid listener of "Joel Olsteen" on TV, Hank was quick to share his thoughts. Above all Hank was known for his caring ways, delivering "Meals on Wheels" within the apartments. In 2011, at 93 years old, Hank was awarded the Meals on Wheels American volunteer winner for the Southern Tier. Surviving Mr. Gilbert besides his wife are two brothers, The Rev.Gordon (Linda) Gilbert, and Gilbert "Skip" Gilbert; a son, Lawrence Gilbert of Hilton; two step daughters, Sandra (David) Pettengill of Ischua, and Linda (Rick) Petrucelli of Rochester; two step sons, Randy (Sue) Thomas of Rochester, and David Thomas of Tuscon, AZ.; two grandchildren; four step grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; two step great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Mr. Gilbert was predeceased by his parents; his stepmother Elizabeth Arva; one brother Leslie; and two sisters in law Flossie and Connie Gilbert. Friends are invited to a memorial service to be held on Saturday October 20, 2012 at 2:00 P.M. in the community room at Brookside Community Apts., 301 W. Henley St., Olean, N.Y. The Rev. Robert E. Goode will officiate. Burial will be at Leicester Cemetery, Leicester, NY at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Brookside Community Apts., 301 Henley St. Olean, N.Y. 14760, American Heart Association, 25 Hazelwood Dr., Buffalo, N.Y. 14228, or Charcot-Marie-Tooth Association, P.O. Box 105, Glenolden, PA. 19036. Arrangements are under the direction of the Letro-McIntosh-Spink Funeral Home, Inc. #646 E. State Street, Olean. Online condolences may be made by clicking on the button above.