The former chief of Walpole Island and the pastor of the Walpole Island Evangelistic Centre, has died.
Pastor Joseph Gilbert passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Monday, April 30, 2018.
He was 74.
Joseph was the Chief of Walpole Island First Nation for six terms.
“Joseph was also a builder of houses and churches with skills as an Iron Worker, pressure welder, carpenter and plumber,” his obituary reads.
He is survived by his wife Sharon, his children Gaylynn, Sondra and Jeremy, his grandchildren Kyle, Andrea, Ryan, Brian and Cecilia and the great grandfather to nine.
The family will receive relatives and friends at the Evangelistic Centre, 156 Dan Shab Road on Walpole Island from 5 p.m. on Thursday until Saturday morning.
His funeral will be celebrated at the Walpole Island Sports Complex, 770 Tecumseh Road, Walpole Island at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 5 with visiting at the complex two hours prior.
Interment will follow at Highbanks Cemetery.
Many people have posted tributes since Gilbert’s passing.
“Many, many people from around the world were impacted in some way by Joseph, and I am one of them,” said Harland Joseph.
“He has touched so many lives, leading souls to the Lord,” said Renee Owl.
“I am comforted knowing that he has reached his eternal home and I pray comfort, peace & strength for his family and community.”
“I will always remember Pastor Joseph for his humility and amazing teaching gifts,” said Anita Glaab.
“It was an honour to have known him. He will surely be missed.”
Online tributes may be left at www.CavanaghFuneralHome.ca.
