William “Bill” J. Gilbert passed away peacefully at OhioHealth Mansfield following a sudden illness on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. He was 88.
He was born on February 3, 1938 in St. Joseph, Missouri to the late Harold and Charlene (Meyer) Gilbert. On August 18, 1962 Bill married the love of his life, Judith Rosenow, in Hillsdale, Michigan and together they shared 63 wonderful years of marriage.
Bill dedicated much of his life to a distinguished career in the railroad and rapid transit industry, where he worked as a civil engineer and took great pride in helping design and maintain the systems that kept communities connected. His lifelong fascination with trains extended beyond his profession into one of his favorite hobbies, model railroading, where he enjoyed recreating the details and craftsmanship of the rail lines he admired so much. A faithful and longtime member of First Congregational Church, Bill valued his church family and the friendships and fellowship he found there. He will be remembered as a thoughtful, hardworking man whose steady nature, dedication, and quiet passions left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
He is survived by his loving wife Judy Gilbert, sons David Gilbert and Douglas (Melissa) Gilbert, as well several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Bill is preceded in death by his sisters Shirley and Carole.
Friends may call on June 27, 2026 from 1 to 2 pm at the First Congregational Church. 640 Millsboro East Road, Mansfield, Ohio 44903. A Celebration of Life service will be held immediately following. Pastor Brad Bunn will speak.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Epilepsy Foundation, 8301 Professional Place East, Suite 200, Landover, MD 20785 or to the First Congregational Church Music department.
Snyder Funeral Homes is honored to serve Bill’s family and encourage you to share a fond memory or message of condolence on his obituary page at www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com.
Funeral Home: Snyder Funeral Homes, Marion Avenue Chapel
Website: www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com