(1956 Graduate Of Wauseon High School)
Robert S. Gilson peacefully passed away May 30, 2024, surrounded by his family. He was born in Fulton County, Ohio on July 1, 1938 to Carl Gilson and Christine (Edgar) Gilson.
On December 24, 1961 at Trinity Lutheran Church of Wauseon, Robert married Louise I. Lind, who survives him. Robert is also survived by his sister Virginia (Bob) McNaughton of Fort Collins, CO, and brother Fletcher (Lisa) Gilson of Reno, NV, children R. Lance (Diane) Gilson of Swanton, Robin L. (Joann) Gilson of Delta, and three grandchildren, Calla (Keith) Gilson of Holland, Carra (José) Gilson of Denver, CO and CalLind (Kelly) Gilson of Bowling Green.
Preceding him in death are both parents, sister and brother in-law Lorene and Gene Roose, and granddaughters Mercedes and Seville Gilson who surely greeted him in Heaven with love.
Robert graduated from Wauseon High School with the class of 1956 where he played basketball and enjoyed a variety of shenanigans, the likes of which have become legendary stories that delight his grandchildren to this day.
After high school, Robert moved to Washington, D.C. to work for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) as a printer.
Missing his high school sweetheart, he moved back to Fulton County where he and Louise started their life together. Robert worked as a graphic arts technician for Reece Brothers Inc. in Toledo, Ohio for thirty-three years.
Robert greatly enjoyed car culture throughout his life. From the drag strip to road races, in his early years he was the proud driver of the ‘57 Chevy, widely recognized as the fastest car in the tri-county area.
Over time he collected and restored several classic cars that he enjoyed driving to car shows across the United States with his wife riding proudly in the front seat.
Many members of the extended family have warm memories of Robert leading table grace at family meals, organizing games of football, and as a trusty accomplice in Friday night hijinks.
Robert was a member at Trinity Lutheran Church in Wauseon, Ohio where he served on Church Council, as a deacon, and enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren grow in their faith.
Robert was deeply loved. His quick wit, wide smile and humor will be greatly missed.
The family welcomes friends to a visitation at Trinity Lutheran Church of Wauseon from 9:00 AM until 10:00 AM on Friday June 7, 2024. A Celebration of Life will follow at 10:00 AM with Pastor Ashley Rosa-Ruggieri presiding. All are welcome to a pie reception following the service to honor Robert’s oft-quoted philosophy, “Life is uncertain, eat dessert first.”
Edgar-Grisier Funeral Home in Wauseon has been entrusted with services. Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.grisierfh.com.
