Ronnie E. “Gilby” Gilbertson, of Chesterton, passed away Friday March 28, 2008 in his home surrounded by his loving family. He was 67.

He was born August 16, 1940 in Michigan City the son of Harry E. and Zelma M. (Scott) Gilbertson, both of whom preceded him in death.

He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Barbara A. (Carew) Gilbertson.

He is also survived by a son, Chris (Dana) Gilbertson, of Chesterton; a daughter, Hope (Steve) Smith of Valparaiso; five grandchildren, Alicia, Stephanie, Scott (Tonya), and Keri Smith, and Grant Gilbertson; one great-grandchild, Emma Smith; three sisters-in-law, Agnes Fonseca, Bettie (Glen) Guenther, and Roberta Robinson and brother-in-law Manuel Fonseca as well as several nieces and nephews.

He was also preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Ola M. Scott who raised him; his twin brother Robert C. Gilbertson; and by his second family John J. and Myrtle M. (Cogley) Carew; brothers-in-law James, Francis, John E., Bud, and Michael Carew.

He retired from NIPSCO in 1995 with over 35 years of service in several areas. He was a veteran of the Indiana National Guard. He was a member of the Chesterton Moose Lodge #1623. His first love was spending time with his family followed closely by fishing. He also enjoyed going to the movies.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 2 at Edmonds and Evans Funeral Home, 517 Broadway, Chesterton. Interment will follow in Chesterton Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 2-8 p.m. Tuesday April 1, at Edmonds and Evans Funeral Home.

Memorials may be given to the family.

www.ee-fh.com

Posted 3/31/2008