John Leo Gilbert

January 10, 1950 - May 13, 2021

It is with great sadness that the family of John Gilbert announce his sudden passing on Thursday, May 13, 2021, at the age of 71. His loss was completely unexpected and the family is shocked, and deeply saddened. John will be forever remembered by his precious children, grandchildren, extended family and friends. John is predeceased by his father, mother, sister, and his beloved wife, Donna Smith. After graduating from Imlay City High School class of 1968, he went onto obtain his Associate’s Degree from Macomb Community College in vehicle design in 1993. John met the love of his life Donna, and they married in December of 1980. John retired, after working at General Motors for 37 years, as a wood model maker. Anyone who met John, knew that he was an incredibly hardworking, and kind hearted man. He had an immense passion for wood working, fishing, farming, and his love of all animals. John’s family and friends will miss him more than words can say. A funeral service honoring John will take place at 3:00 p.m., with visitation starting at 2:00 p.m., on Thursday, May 20, 2021 at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 305 Sixth St., Traverse City, Michigan 49684. Rev. Kenneth Stachnik will officiate. For those unable to attend in person a virtual webcasting will be at www.rjfh.tv. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a memorial donation, in John’s name to either, the AC Paw of Traverse City, the or FFA (Future Farmers of the America). Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories with John’s family at his tribute page at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com. The family is being cared for by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.