Robert Gilder's Obituary
Robert A. "Bob" Gilder, age 85, of North Ridgeville, passed away Tuesday, February 21, 2012 at New Life Hospice Residential Center in Lorain, following a short illness.
Bob was born May 3, 1926 to Ralph and Helen Gilder of North Ridgeville. He lived his entire life in North Ridgeville.
He was a US Army veteran of World War II having served in the Battle of the Bulge.
He owned and operated Gilder's Service Station on Center Ridge Road and was a member of the original North Ridgeville Fire Department from 1947-1986 and retired at the rank of Captain.
He was a member of First Congregational United Church of Christ, VFW Elyria Post 1079, N. Ridgeville American Legion, N. Ridgeville Historical Society, N. Ridgeville Senior Center and various car clubs.
He enjoyed refurbishing furniture, flea marketing, telling stories, volunteering with the Salvation Army and was an avid Cleveland Indians fan.
Bob is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Jean; oldest daughter, Marcia (Marty) Orcutt of Lisbon, CT, oldest son, Jim (Betsy) of Seville, youngest daughter, Nancy Gilder of Denver, CO, daughter-in-law, Debbie of Amherst; grandchildren, Mathew (Ali), Jason, Gretchen (Mike); great-grandchildren, Rachel and Emily, younger brother, Alan (Ginny) of Elyria.
He was preceded in death by his youngest son, Gregg; his parents; brother, Don, sister-in-law, Carolyn Gilder and his sister Lynne Dreger.
Friends may call Thursday from 4-8 PM at the Bogner Family Funeral Home, 36625 Center Ridge Rd., N. Ridgeville. A Memorial Service will be held on Friday at 11 AM at First Congregational United Church of Christ.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Congregational United Church of Christ, 36363 Center Ridge Rd., 44039 or North Ridgeville Senior Center, 7327 Avon Belden Rd., 44039.
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