Dorothy R. Gilbert

Gilbert – Dorothy R., “Dottie”, 94, of Richland Township, went to the arms of Jesus, August 17, 2015 at Arbutus Park Retirement Home. She was born August 11, 1921 in Johnstown, PA.  Daughter of James and Henrietta (Shaffer) Roberts. She was raised by her Great Aunt and Uncle William and Emma Allendorfer. Preceded in death by her parents; her Aunt and Uncle and daughter-in-law, Michele (Severino) Gilbert. She is survived by her devoted husband, Harold L. Gilbert, Richland Township, whom she married on February 9, 1941. Her death breaks a union of 74 years. Also survived by children, Patricia L.(David) Bergman, Pamela G. (Skip) Rowland all of Johnstown, Kipyard C. Gilbert, Seaville, NJ.; grandchildren, Stephanie (Kevin) Whittle, VA; Paul (Cathy) Bergman, Johnstown, Melissa Rowland, Harrisburg, Cara (Scott) Lushko, Pastor Kirk (Jen) Rowland all of Johnstown, Courtney C. Gilbert, TX, and Quinn (Brian) Haley, VA. Also survived by great grandchildren, Riel and Simeon Whittle, VA, Hunter Bergman, Hannah, Jacob, Noah Lushko, Sienna and Shay Rowland all of Johnstown, Addison Haley, VA; sister, Evelyn Thomas, Johnstown and several nieces and nephews. Dottie and Harold also had many “adopted” children; exchange student, Angelika(Rommel) Winter and daughters, Barbara and Carola Winter, all of Dornburg Germany, Stanislava, Ivalyo, Elizabeth and Peter Petrov all of Il. and many others too numerous to mention. She was a graduate of Westmont Hilltop High School, class of 1938. Dottie was a wonderful homemaker and was known for her gracious hospitality. She liked bright colors and lots of people. Mom was a loving, forgiving and generous person and a great witness of her faith in God until her final day. She loved her husband and family dearly, but most of all she loved Jesus. She and Harold spent most of their days from 1978 to 2006 in Ocean City, NJ because of her health problems. They cherished the many friends they made in that area as well. Her family would like to thank the wonderful, loving care given to her by the nurses and aides of Arbutus Park Manor and Windber Hospice. At Dottie’s request there will be no public viewing. She was a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church where friends will be welcomed from 10-11 a.m. on Saturday, August 22, 2015. Celebration of her home going will be held at 11 a.m. with the Pastor Kirk Rowland officiating. Interment at Grandview Cemetery. The family is being served by the Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane, Richland. Dottie’s family suggests donations be made in her memory to Emmanuel Baptist Church, 425 Luther Road, Johnstown, PA 15904 or Arbutus Park Manor, Benevolent Care Fund, 207 Ottawa Street, Johnstown, PA 15904. On line condolences may be posted to www.wharrisfuneralhome.com.