Gene Wesley Gilbert
The Western News | UPDATED 2 hours, 20 minutes AGO
Gene Wesley Gilbert passed away Dec. 8, 2025.
Gene was born to Charles and Rose Gilbert on Dec. 20, 1944, in Havre, Montana. He attended several schools on the Hi-Line and graduated from Harlem High School in 1963 as valedictorian but opted out of the honor. After high school he attended Devry Institute in Arizona.
In 1964 he was drafted into the Army and served two years for his country. He was stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri and Fort Gordon, Georgia. After his honorable discharge, he went to work at J. Neils.
He relocated to Washington state and worked numerous jobs. Gene found his niche at the Horse Rescue Mission in Marysville, Washington, where he spent many years. He was an avid animal lover.
In July 2024 he moved to Libby and resided with his sister/caregiver Karla and Richard Schrade.
Gene was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Ronald and Roger Gilbert; and nephew Rod Gilbert. He is survived by his sisters Karla (Richard) Schrade of Libby, Montana and Cheryl Gilbert of Great Falls, Montana; brother Steven (Denise) of Rock Hill, South Carolina; sister-in-law Sheila Gilbert of Libby, Montana; niece Dulci; nephews Jerry, Richie, Tony, Jason and Eric; great nieces and nephews; and special friend Dale Squeglia of Snohomish, Washington.
No service is planned. Donations can be made to Kootenai Pets for Life.
Arrangements are under the care of Schnackenberg Funeral Home of Libby, Montana. Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting www.schnackenbergfh.com.