Usaf Maj. James F. (Ret.) Gilbert

USAF Maj (ret) James F. Gilbert, age 85 of Fairborn, passed away Saturday, February 17, 2018.  He was born March 4, 1932, in San Benito, TX, the son of the late Gordon and Violet (Gereau) Gilbert.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Gloria Biedleman and Betty Jennings; brother, Mike Gilbert, and infant twin brothers.  He is survived by his devoted wife of 61 years, Kathryn (Ondrusek) Gilbert; sons, Patrick Gilbert (Angela Cupp), Grayson Gilbert, and daughter, Annette (Gilbert) Rizer (Timothy Rizer); five grandchildren, Kirsten Rizer, Taylor Cupp, 1st Lt Kellie Rizer (fiancé Timothy Stewart), Ryan Gilbert, Christopher Rizer; a great-granddaughter, Evangeline Wehde; four siblings, Patricia Collier, Lindy Gilbert, Paul Gilbert, Gary Gilbert; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.  Jim served his country in the U.S. Air Force as an electrical engineer, retiring as a Major after 28 years of service.  Highlights of his active duty career include serving in Japan and Korea during the Korean War, and working on the Apollo program at NASA Manned Spacecraft Center, Houston.  JIm’s final active duty assignment was at Wright-Patterson AFB, where he and his family settled after retirement.  He then worked in the C-17 SPO for 17 years as a contractor.  He enjoyed reading, square dancing and ballroom dancing, singing, gardening, his horses, working on his farm, and most of all, spending time with his wife and family.  His mischievous wit and humorous stories entertained family and friends, while his Roman Catholic faith was foundational to his life.  Visitation will be held on Sunday, February 25, 2018, from 2:00-4:00 PM in the Belton-Stroup Funeral Home, 422 E. Dayton-Yellow Springs Rd., Fairborn.  Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, February 26, 2018, at 11:00 AM at Chapel 3 (Prairies Chapel), 682 Chapel Ln, Dayton, OH 45433, Father Donald Moss, Celebrant.  Burial with military honors will follow at Dayton National Cemetery.