TRAVERSE CITY - Jim Gilbo, 84, of Leelanau County, died at Munson Hospice House on Friday, February 17, 2017. By his side were his son, Bob, and family friends. His wife Diane, and daughter Carol preceded him in death. His sisters Joan Lamorandier and Rose Mary Struble of Kalamazoo also preceded him in death. He is survived by his brother, Father Roberto P. Gilbo, a Holy Cross priest, of Calle Larga, Chile.
Born and raised in Alpena, Jim graduated from Michigan Tech with a BS in civil engineering. After serving with the Army Corps of Engineers in Korea, he worked for the Michigan State Highway Department. Moving with his family to Traverse City in 1963, he became the managing engineer of the Leelanau County Road Commission, a position Jim held with distinction for nearly 30 years. Upon retirement, he enjoyed serving as a TART Trail Ambassador, and volunteered at the Leelanau County Historical Society, as well as being active in the Woodwinds Condo Association and the Leelanau Conservancy. Jim and Diane also enjoyed extensive travels in the U.S. and around the world, often accompanied by good friends.
Friends may call at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home on Wednesday, February 22, 2017, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A memorial Mass will be offered at Saint Kateri Tekakwitha Church in Peshawbestown on Thursday, February 23, 2017, at 11:30 a.m.
The family would like to thank the staff of Munson Hospice House and Barbara Goodearl of Just Like Family. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Father Fred Foundation or to Munson Hospice House.
Please share your thoughts and memories with Jim's family by way of his online guestbook at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com .
The family is being cared for by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.