Obituary of John Sidney Gilbert

John Sidney Gilbert

1941 - 2026

It is with deep sadness that the family of John Sidney Gilbert announce his sudden but peaceful passing on March 22, 2026, at the age of 84.

Born in Corner Brook, NL, John spent most of his life in his hometown. After high school he worked as a paper maker alongside his father and three brothers at the Bowater’s Pulp and Paper Mill. He retired after 38 dedicated years and, not long after, moved with his loving wife, Marie, to River of Ponds—a small community along the Great Northern Peninsula that had, over the years, become their favorite camping and fly-fishing river. John and Marie spent many happy years there, content in their home overlooking the ocean, surrounded by good friends who shared his lifelong love for fly fishing, moose hunting, playing cards, and darts, and being part of a close-knit community where everyone knew, and looked out for one another. In 2023 he gave up his home in River of Ponds and moved to Oram’s Bethesda 2 seniors home in Gander, NL, where he spent the last three happy years of his life. He loved it there, often praising the caring staff and the wonderful meals they provided, and he was truly content living among new friends in such a warm environment.

John was a good-natured, easy-going, warm, gentle, and friendly man who was quick with jokes and truly enjoyed the company of friends and neighbours, especially in River of Ponds, and deeply cherished his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was well-liked wherever he went, made friends easily, and will be remembered for his sense of humor, kindness, and the genuine life he lived.

He was predeceased by his loving wife, Marie; his parents, John and Martha Gilbert; his brothers, George (Joyce), Max (Genova), Clarence (Rhoda); his sisters, Marjorie (Ken), Annie (Orestus), Ethyl (Roy), and Violet; and his stepchildren, Jim and Sharon. John is survived by his children, Terry (Donna), Lori (Tony), and Gary (Christina); his stepdaughters, Betsy (Pat) and Bonnie (Shawn); his sister, Ivy (predeceased by her husband Joe) and sister-in-law Joyce; his many beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and his dear friends from Oram’s Bethesda 2 in Gander, from River of Ponds, and from his life in Corner Brook.

In lieu of flowers, donations in John's memory may be made to a Charity of One's Choice.

A memorial service will be held at Fillatre’s Funeral Home Chapel, 4 St. Marks Avenue in Corner Brook, NL on Saturday, March 28th, beginning at 2:30 p.m, officiated by Major's Brian and Valerie Wheeler.  John’s memory will live on in the stories shared between friends and family he held dear. Forever loved and never forgotten.