Brian D. Gilbertson

Brian D. Gilbertson, 58, passed away January 21, 2020, after suffering a sudden intra-cranial hemorrhage.

Brian was born June 20, 1961, in Grand Forks, the third of four children born to Bob and Yvonne (Knain) Gilbertson. Early on, his dad dubbed him “Buster” — a nickname that stayed with him in family circles.

A life-long Grand Forks resident, Brian graduated in 1979 from Red River High School and began fine-tuning his many talents. A jack-of-all-trades, Brian could tackle any project he set his mind to, holding jobs as a mechanic, carpenter, and often amazing people with his feats of strength while working at Mini-Movers. Although he had a varied career, he was probably best known as a fixture at Bob’s Oil and Gas, starting there as an attendant and culminating his career as part-owner.

Brian was an avid collector, and enjoyed hunting for everything from antiques to record LPs. He had a great love of music, playing in local bands, listening to everything from Conway Twitty to his favorite, The Beatles, and dancing. He enjoyed taking his sister to monthly dances at St. Anne’s, spending the entire time on the dance floor with the residents.

Despite his sometimes gruff exterior, Brian loved socializing and making people laugh. From making funny faces at customers’ kids, to playing practical jokes on friends and telling tall tales, Brian loved a good laugh. The only thing he loved more were dogs. At Bob’s, he was always ready with treat in hand to greet all 4-legged customers. He was always willing to help anyone with anything; even at the very end when he was able to be a donor and improve the quality of life for many people.

Brian is survived by his daughters, Sara (Dan Fox) and Jenny, along with three grandchildren, Mia McCoy, Wyatt Fox, and Dylan Lian, Fargo, ND; his sister, Michele, and brother, Darin (Katherine Anagnost); and his life partner, Paulette Passa, and beloved dogs, Layla and Otis, all in Grand Forks.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Brad, and his parents.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Circle of Friends Animal Shelter.

Funeral services will be 3:00 PM Saturday, January 25, 2020 at Amundson Funeral Home of Grand Forks. Visitation will be for the hour before the service in the funeral home.