Ralph David Gilbert

Ralph David Gilbert, age 80, of Battle Creek passed away peacefully at home on Thursday morning, May 13, 2021. He was born in Corning, New York on November 15, 1940, the loving son of Walter and Marium (Crane) Gilbert. Ralph retired from Michigan Paperboard/Graphic Packaging in 2007 after more than 37 years of service.

Ralph married Dorothy "Irene" Beam in Springfield, Michigan; she survives. He is also survived by his children, Ralph Gilbert, Wendy Gilbert, Tammy Wilson, Alan (Carla) Gilbert, Rick (Suzy) Gilbert, Karen (Adam) Berryhill, and Jason Gilbert; several grandchildren, great & great-great grandchildren; brothers, Walter and Don (Diane) Gilbert; a sister, Joann Ely; a large extended family and many friends. Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, Walter Gilbert and Marium (Crane) Gilbert Cowen; and his sister, Janice Ahart Howe.

A picnic to celebrate Ralph's life will be held 1:00 p.m., Saturday, June 12th at the Anybody's Playground at Bailey Park. All are welcome!! Please bring a chair and dish to pass. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Hospice Care of SW Michigan. Arrangements by Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, Battle Creek. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.