William Gilbert Sr.
William Gilbert Sr., age 70, of Chardon, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones.
Born April 23, 1955, in Marlinton, W. Va., William lived a life marked by hard work, generosity and an unwavering devotion to his family.
From a young age, William had a passion for all things mechanical. He worked his way up through various automotive equipment roles, gaining respect and trust at every step, before ultimately founding his own business, Grace Automotive Equipment. Known for his skill and dedication, William was often the first call when friends or neighbors had car trouble—always ready to lend a hand without hesitation.
Though he loved working with his hands and adored his motorcycle, William’s heart belonged entirely to his family. In one memorable act of love, he sold his beloved bike one winter to ensure a joyful Christmas for his family—a gesture that spoke volumes about the kind of man he was.
William found joy in the everyday moments: watching football with his son, cheering at his grandchildren’s sporting events or sneaking a few dollars to the kids. He was a loving husband to Lori Anne (ne Collins) Gilbert, whom he met in a bowling alley—the sport that brought them together and remained a lifelong passion. Over the years, William bowled in seven leagues, forming friendships and memories that lasted a lifetime.
A devoted Buckeyes fan, William rarely missed a game, often swapping homes with his son depending on who had the better TV setup. He was also deeply rooted in his faith and community, regularly helping with yard work for friends, family and Chardon Baptist Church, where he even mowed the lawn out of quiet commitment and care. As a member of the church for over 30 years, this was an easy gesture for him.
William will be remembered as a down-to-earth man who never needed fancy things. He rarely complained, told the best jokes and always put others before himself.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Clinton and Anna (nee Elonen) Gilbert; birth parents, Howard McCauley and Hazel (nee Bennett) Taylor; brother Robert Leonard; and sister Ruth (Barry) O’Brien.
William is survived by his beloved wife, Lori Anne Gilbert; his devoted son, William (Stacia) Gilbert; his nephew, Chip VanOver; cherished grandchildren, Ryley (Mac) Gilbert and Hannah Gilbert; brothers Larry (Zorina, deceased) Lambert, of Fayetteville, N.C., Stanley Taylor, of Elkins, W. Va., Paul (Donna) McCauley, of Beverly, W. Va., Randy (Lisa) McCauley, of Cravensdale, W. Va., and Kevin McCauley, of Elkins, W. Va.; sisters Nancy (Paul) Draa, of Warren, Ohio, and Nora (Bobby) Lambert, of Millcreek, W. Va.; and many loving nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held at Burr Funeral Home on Thursday, July 17, 2025, from 5-8 p.m.
Funeral services will take place on Friday, July 18, 2025, at 11 a.m., with additional visitation beginning at 10 a.m.
Following the service, a procession will lead to Hambden Cemetery for the burial committal.
William’s legacy lives on in the laughter of his grandchildren, the loyalty of his family and the countless lives he touched with a kind word, a helping hand or a well-timed joke.
Arrangements are entrusted to Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.burrservice.com.
