BEAVER MEADOW – Gerald “Pete” Gilbert, 83, of Beaver Meadow, passed away Dec. 7, 2010 at his home.
He was born in Binghamton Sept. 20, 1927, the son of Peter and Mary Gilbert, growing up in the Sherburne area. He was a World War II veteran of the U.S. Navy. He worked at various jobs before making a career of Simmonds Precision in Norwich for 25 years.
Pete was predeceased by his companion of 15 years, Myra Markham, whom he met at the number one turn at the Square Deal Motorcycle Race Track in Binghamton where he was a lifetime member. He was proud of his “top shelf gal.”
Pete was known for his enthusiastic spirit and zest for life. His love of racing and motorcycles as a young man carried through his entire life.
He was known for some sayings such as “Be alert and don’t get hurt,” “Today’s today and tomorrow’s tomorrow,” “Roll with the punches” and “Keep her between the fences.”
Surviving are his loving daughters, Pam (Dana) Peterson of Sanford, Maine, Debra Gilbert of Manlius and Linda Gilbert of Ithaca; his loving grandchildren, Eric V. Peterson and Kirstyn B. Peterson of Brooklyn, Michael Evans of Calif. and Jason Kotas of Fla.; Myra’s children and families.
Services will be Saturday at 1 p.m. at Smith Funeral Home, DeRuyter. Burial will be in Cole Hill Cemetery, Beaver Meadow.
Calling hours wil be Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the funeral home.
Contributions may be made to the Wolf Mountain Nature Center, 562 Hopkins Crandall Rd., Smyrna, NY 13464.