Jerol Roy Gilbert, age 62, Thief River Falls, MN, passed away Saturday, May 20, at Altru Hospital in Grand Forks, ND, surrounded by his family and best friend.

Visitation will be at 10 AM and Memorial Service at 11 AM on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, at Johnson Funeral Service, Thief River Falls, MN.

On July 28, 1960, Jerol was born to Roy and Ruth (Johnson) Gilbert in Thief River Falls, MN.   He was baptized and confirmed at Redeemer Lutheran Church, Thief River Falls. He attended school in Thief River Falls, graduating from Lincoln High School with the Class of 1978. After graduation, Jerol worked as a delivery driver and office staff at Northwest Beverage. He spent several years playing guitar with Duck Soup and Saddle Tramp Bands. In the last years, he worked at Arctic Cat until his retirement. He was a member of the Elks Club.

In 1991, Jerol was united in marriage to Gretchen Fredeen in Las Vegas; sons JR and Michael were born to this union.

Jerol was a talented, self-taught musician who loved to play guitar. Growing up, his mother insisted that he leave his guitar long enough to come and eat dinner. He also had a great sense of humor and quick wit. He enjoyed golf, going to the lake, and spending time with his friends at The Acre.  Jerol had many friends that he developed over the years.

Jerol is survived by his sons, JR Gilbert of Thompson, ND, and Michael (Samantha) Gilbert of Minneapolis, MN; his mother, Ruth Gilbert of Grand Forks, ND; sister, Julie (Butch) Riske of Grand Forks, ND, brother Jeff (Kim) Gilbert of Thief River Falls, MN, special friend Jen McArdle, and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins, and his special cat, Lucy.

Jerol was preceded in death by his father, Roy Gilbert, paternal and maternal grandparents, and several aunts, uncles, close friends, and his special cat, Walter.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to the family are preferred.