HAMPDEN and GULFPORT, Fla. – After a decade afflicted with Multiple Myeloma cancer, Bob died Sept. 28, 2013. Medical and hospice staff frequently commented that Bob was a “Miracle;” he surpassed all expectations of Most MM patients. Despite the MM and multiple other medical challenges, Bob always maintained his PMA, “Positive Mental Attitude.” Bob pushed all limitations and advocated whenever necessary. This summer he did everything his way.
On July 15, 1946, Bob’s life began in Connecticut, filled with grandparents, family and friends. His active social skills were cultivated with family and while working in the family business. It became evident in the early years that Bob loved people. Thus began Bob’s life-long employment and passion – trying to serve his customers and clients, regardless of the task or employment! Self-employment with Jordan’s Restaurant, the Admiral’s Ocean inn, and Prudential Northeast Real Estate Property’s utilized all his expertise developed throughout his life. These opportunities provided him with a wealth of friendships, sustained over the years.
Bob was a U.S. Army veteran, a graduate of Husson College and a member of many organizations including the President of Bangor Jaycees, the Searsport Lions Club, President of the Searsport Chamber of Commerce, Hampden Kiwanis, Maine Restaurant Association Board of Director, Maine Real Estate Information System Board of Director, the Hampden Town Council Board of Director, Bangor Board of Realtors, Penobscot County Budget Committee, and the Oncology Support Foundation Board of Director.
While preparing for his final journey, Bob took time to reflect upon the many chapters of his life. Although most of his years were spent in the entrepreneurial profession, he described himself as positive, hyper, gregarious, fun loving, spontaneous, and impulsive. Always in a hurry, whistling was his trademark; everyone knew when Bob was nearby. As he was robbed of stamina and physical abilities, Bob took great pleasure with his culinary skills, entertaining family and friends. Bob remarked when he was forced to retire, his final chapter was the most rewarding. Bob was able to spend significant time with his children, getting re-acquainted as adults and subsequent “friends.” Their growth and outcome as adults was his most cherished gift.
Bob is survived by his wife of 45 years, Callie White; daughters, Elisha Hardy and husband, Todd, and Chrissy Patin; son, Tony and wife, Debra; sister, Mary Bartlett and husband, Royce; and grandchildren, Justin, Alyson, William, Adie, Ashley, Morgan, Zach, and Brooke. Bob was predeceased by his parents, William and Palma Gilberti of Fairfield, Conn.; and his son-in-law, Ronald Patin.
The Gilberti family extends their profound gratitude to New Hope Hospice of Maine and the Suncoast Hospice of Florida as well as the Palliative Care Team at EMMC. Together they all embrace and assist life struggles and transitions with genuine comfort and vigilance, 24/7 if necessary. In addition, we give thoughtful consideration to our family and many friends who gave us hope, time, and love during Bob’s long journey.
Family and friends are invited to visit 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 4, at Hampden-Gilpatrick Funeral Home, 45 Western Ave., Hampden. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 5, at St. Paul the Apostle Parish, St. Matthew’s Catholic Church, 70 Western Ave., Hampden. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Bob’s honor may be made to New Hope Hospice, P.O. Box 757, Holden, ME 04429-0757. Messages of condolence and memories may be shared though www.hampdengilpatrick.com.
Robert M. Gilberti ‘Bob’
