Roger “Bill” William Gilbert Jr, 77, of Ashland, found peace at home on October 7th, 2022. Youngest son of Roger Sr and Loretta, he was born on March 2nd, 1945, in Oak Ridge, Tennessee where his father had relocated to work in the war production effort during World War II. His family, native Missourians, relocated back to central Missouri in 1949 where Roger grew up and made a life.

After graduating high school, Roger completed barber college and cut hair for many years, even operating a barber shop at one time. Roger found his true propose behind the wheel of a big brown truck where he spent 38 years driving over the road for the United Parcel Service (UPS). He was inducted into the UPS Circle of Honor for safe driving, and prior to retirement he had attained 37 continuous years of safe driving.

Roger always enjoyed spending time outdoors. After retirement, Roger and his wife Linda moved to Ashland where they worked tirelessly to make a wonderful home and always kept a well-manicured lawn. Fall was Roger’s favorite time of year, often filled with bucking and splitting firewood for his shop and frequent back road drives with Linda to take in the beautiful fall foliage.

He will always be remembered as an avid conversationalist. Whether it was at the card table, around a campfire, or even stopped in passing by those he knew, he always enjoyed good company and was eager to share the news of the day. Good company himself, you could always count on his quick wit, and an invaluable piece of advice that was sure to come in handy. Roger held a special place in his heart for all that knew him, and he will always be loved and sorely missed.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents, Roger Sr and Loretta, and two brothers, Denis and Wayne. He is survived by Linda, his wife of 43 years, along with their children, son Scott and wife Trish Gilbert, daughter Lorie and husband Mike Tippett, sons Drew and wife Jessica Gilbert, Darrell Bussing, Garrett Bussing, their nine grandchildren, one great-grandchild, one sister, Mary Ann and husband David Lee, two sisters-in-law, Suzanne Gilbert and Peggy Gilbert, and many nieces and nephews.

A gathering of Family and Friends is planned for next spring to remember Roger, details to follow.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com