Richard James Gilbertson, Jr.

Richard James Gilbertson, Jr. (known as “Gil” to most)., 83, died peacefully on October 3, 2023, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in 1940, as the only child of Richard Sr. (a.k.a. Jim) and Helen Gilbertson (nee Froat) of Garwood, NJ, he grew up surrounded by his many aunts and uncles.

After graduating from Roselle Park High School in 1958, Richard proudly decided to serve his country in the United States Army and marry the love of his life, Jane Florence Stokes. The two were married in 1962 shortly after he had enlisted. In their 55 years together, they would raise 2 beautiful daughters.

Richard spent his entire fifty-year career as a truck driver. His experience and skill set made him one of the most sought-after drivers. Even in his retirement he was receiving calls from trucking companies looking for assistance. The trips he spent created memories and stories that he enjoyed sharing with other truckers, friends, family, and anyone who had a moment to listen.

Gil had many hobbies. He was an avid Bowler who not only enjoyed league participation, but he also coached childrens’ leagues for many years at Echo Lanes in Mountainside. The kids enjoyed his kind heart and time learning from one of the best. Later in life he bowled with Oakwood Lanes in Washington, NJ where he had found incredible comradery that felt like home.

He was also an avid fisherman who loved spending time sitting on the riverbank enjoying the quiet time with an occasional catch or two.

Gil was promoted to “Poppy” when he became a grandfather and then a great grandfather. He devoted his life to his family and loved to visit his family for the simple things like coffee, dinner, and gathering for no reason at all. He was blessed enough to take the time as a care giver to his great-grandchildren and to watch his grandchildren become parents in their own right.

He was an avid reader and vivid storyteller who loved movies. He would make a movie list every holiday and add on new ones every year. It was the quality time spent with his family that fulfilled his life until the very end.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Jane Gilbertson, and his dear son in law, Joseph P. Wilds, Sr.

Surviving are his loving daughters, Wendy Wilds and Patricia Gazzillo and husband Anthony, his cherished grandchildren Joseph P. Wilds, Jr., Jessica Zur and husband Scott, Samantha Keyes and husband Robert, Kelly Grant, Niki Grant, and Aliyah Gazzillo, his adored great grandchildren, Olivia, Clara, Walter, Robbie, Audrey, and Madelyn, as well as his many cherished friends who were his extended family.