Obituary of Richard George Gilbert

Richard (Dick, Goose) Gilbert was born April 21, 1931 to George and Lena Gilbert in Salinas California. Dick graduated from Salinas High School where he played football and was a band member. He met his wife of 66 years Darlene Mae Keithley while in high school. Dick served our country during the Korean War and was honorably discharged in 1955. Dick worked as a meat cutter at Safeway his entire career. Soon after retiring from Safeway Dick "found" himself at Delaveaga Golf Course and began his second career working as a bartender and playing golf. Throughout his years at Delaveaga, Dick/Goose made hundreds of friends. He and his best friend George Vomvolakis met for coffee at the golf course every morning. In addition to golf Dick enjoyed time with family and friends, his annual trips to Lake Tahoe and watching his favorite sports teams: the Warriors, Giants, and 49ers. Dick is survived by his wife of almost 67 years Darlene, His children; Dannettee Shoemaker and her husband Bob, Dan Gilbert and his wife Velma, and D'Anne Gilbert. He is also survived by his grandson Chris Shoemaker and his wife Molly and great grandchildren Ella and Luke Shoemaker as well two nephews and a niece and many extended family members in the San Joaquin Valley. Dick was preceded in death by his mother and father, his brother Bill, son Rick and infant daughter Debbie. Dick will be remembered for his lust for life, quick wit, generosity, and strong work ethic. While honoring Dick's request for no services, the family suggests honoring Dick by spending time with family and friends while remembering him with a toast and /or supporting the great work of Hospice of Santa Cruz County (940 Disc Drive Scotts Valley Ca), with a donation in Dick's name.