Robert "Bob" Gilbertson

Robert “Bob” Gilbertson, 84, passed away at home on June 16, 2016, after a brave fight against cancer. Bob was born May 28, 1932, in Park River, North Dakota, to Lillian (Ellenson) and Henry Gilbertson. In 1940, Bob moved with his family to Grand Forks, where he spent the rest of his life, with military service as the only exception. As a proud member of the U.S. Army’s 2nd Armored Division “Hell on Wheels,” Bob achieved the rank of corporal, serving overseas at USAG Baumholder, Germany. Upon discharge, Bob returned to Grand Forks and attended Aaker’s Business College, where he earned a degree in Accounting and met the love of his life, Yvonne Knain. Bob and Yvonne married on September 19, 1954, and raised four children together. Bob and Yvonne were partners in marriage as well as in their family business, Bob’s Oil Co. With a career spanning 65+ years, Bob represented the ideals of a bygone era — hard work, frugality, self-sacrifice, and helping his fellow man. Just like his iconic vintage “GAS” sign, Bob was an ever-present fixture at the corner of Mill Road and Gateway Avenue, working right up until his May 2016 cancer diagnosis. Loyal customers – both new and old – appreciated his tried- and true-business model that focused heavily on customer service and was enhanced by a great sense of humor and unflagging generosity. Bob had a soft spot for children, making it a point to have a treat or small gift to bring a smile to their faces. In fact, Bob’s dedication to work and family were admired by all. Bob is survived by his daughter, Michele Gilbertson; his sons, Brian (Paulette Passa) and Darin (Katherine Anagnost) Gilbertson — all of Grand Forks; his four grandchildren, Amy Winzer, Grand Forks; Nick Winzer, Minot; and Sara Gilbertson and Jennifer Gilbertson, along with great-grandchildren Mia McCoy, Wyatt Fox, and Dylan Lian, all of Fargo. He is also survived by his brothers Ronnie (Cheryl) Gilbertson and Darrell Gilbertson, Grand Forks; and Larry (Linda) Gilbertson, Woodbridge, Virginia; and sister, Pam (Larry) Moore, Bullhead City, Arizona.   He was preceded in death by his wife, Yvonne; his son, Bradley; his parents; and his sister, Marilyn “Dolly” Thrall. A memorial service will be held on  Monday, June 20, 2016  at 11:00 a.m. in Sharon Lutheran Church, 1720 South 20th St., Grand Forks, ND.Visitation will be for the hour before the service in the church.   Inurnment will be in Memorial Park South Cemetery, Grand Forks.  The family has designated St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or a Veterans Service Organization of your choice for memorials.