Michael A. “Chief” Gilbert, 74, of Rossville, IL, passed away at 9:43 A.M. on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at Carle Hoopeston Regional Health Center. He was born on February 7, 1952, in Danville, IL, the son of George and Geraldine (Moehring) Gilbert.
He is survived by his two sisters, Pat (Tom) Beckner of Rossville, IL and Rhonda Gilbert of Rossville, IL; three nieces and nephews, Justin (Dana) Beckner, Paige Cook, and John (Amber) Beckner; and four great-nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Geraldine Gilbert; grandparents, Dee and Jessie Gilbert and Arthur and Gladys Cartier; and infant twin siblings, Linda Lou and Louis Dee Gilbert.
Mike was the great- great- grandson of Alvan Gilbert who was a pioneer leader of Rossville and for whom the town of Alvin was named. He attended Rossville-Alvin High School, graduating in the Class of 1971. Over the years, Mike worked for Masengale farms and helped out at Norton Machine. He enjoyed mowing and was always willing to help others whenever they needed a hand.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at Anderson Funeral Home, 427 E. Main St., Hoopeston, IL. The funeral service will follow the visitation and will begin at 12:00 P.M. Wednesday at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Rossville Cemetery in Rossville, IL.
Memorial donations to help provide a headstone for Mike may be sent to Norton Machine, P.O. Box 82, Rossville, IL 60963.
Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Mike’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.
Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.
