Eric William Gilbert, age 50 of Grand Rapids passed away unexpectedly Monday, March 22, 2021. Eric is survived by his wife of 24 years, Katie; children, Annie, Libby, Teddy; parents, Dr. James and Barbara Gilbert; mother-in-law, Carol Novak; sisters, Kate (Chris) Christian, Maggie Gilbert, Betsy (Eric) Ulbrich, Molly (Mike) Oldham; sisters-in-law, Julie (Joe) Humphries, Marybeth (Andy) Howard, Carrie Jilek; brothers-in-law, Dave (Meredith) Novak, John (Amy) Novak; many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews; and beloved dogs, Lucy and Pepper. Eric graduated from Hackett High School in 1988 and then earned degrees at Michigan State University and Western Michigan University. He worked in medical device sales for over 25 years and most recently was Vice President of sales at Milestone Scientific. Beyond being his kids’ biggest fan in all things, he had a passion for coaching Catholic Central Lacrosse and his 2022 Kiddos. The family will meet with friends and relatives 2-4pm and 6-8pm, Thursday, March 25 at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel, 3980 Cascade Rd. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546. Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11am Friday, March 26 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 1935 Plymouth Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506 and may be viewed at https://youtu.be/8ud8kBWZaf8. Family will receive visitors from 10-11am. Rev. Troy Nevins, celebrant. Masks and social distancing will be required at both locations. Interment Dutton Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in his honor to Catholic Central Women’s Lacrosse, 319 Sheldon Blvd SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.
6 Responses
Hackett Class of 89
My deepest sympathy and prayers to Katie, Annie, Libby, Teddy and the family. Eric, will be deeply missed, he was a good man!!
My heart hangs heavy for the Gilbert and Novak family.
I picture Eric’s smile and laugh from Highschool and that memory will remain-I am so very sorry for this sudden loss . Heaven has been gifted a beautiful
Soul and may you take comfort and peace in knowing he is in Gods hands.
Thoughts and prayers, peace and love to all-
Betsy (Ripley) Gesmundo
Thinking of you today! Sending love, hugs and prayers to lift you up! May your memories give you peace and love! Grace and Gratitude Het
Hackett Class of 92
Wishing you strength and comfort through this difficult time. Words fail to express our deep sorrow for you loss.
We will keep the Gilbert and Novak families in our prayers.
Katie (Wheeler) Basch and Family
My condolences to all loved ones. There are many that we hold dear to us on this journey of life, and to say goodbye is a great sadness. But in our sorrows we recall our joys. I hope that we can all remember the blessings that came from knowing Eric in this difficult time. Peace to all.
So sad to hear this news. Prayers to the Gilbert and Novak families. Trust that God receives Eric into his kingdom and he will have everlasting life