Gilbert Davis

Gilbert Lee Davis passed away on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, in hospice care after a long health battle. He was surrounded by loved ones. Gilbert grew up in Markesan, Wisconsin, one of eight children of Lona Mae and Warren Davis. He is survived by his brother Herbie and sisters Lisa and Margaret, Sons Gary and James, Daughter Dianna, Granddaughter Ashley, Grandson Mike, and Great Granddaughters Ava and Aubrey.

On the surface, Gilbert was the typical man of his era who kept his feelings close to his chest. In his later years though, he made sure his children knew he loved them and was very proud of each of them. He loved chasing trains with his sons, gardening with his daughter, and talking about tractors to anyone who would listen. He was a secret big softie when it came to his bunnies Peter and Harley, and all the wild ones in his garden, and his dog Katie. He enjoyed train rides, road trips, camping, and waterfalls.

Gilbert served his country for 25 years in the Army and Air National Guard, retiring in 1995. He was a knowledgeable machine operator at Warner Electric for over two decades, where he was known as a surprisingly good trainer and worked for several years at Briggs and Stratton.

He remained his sarcastic, playful self until the end, giving it to his caretakers as good as he got it from them. And he wouldn’t have had it any other way.

Gilbert didn’t want a funeral, but a Celebration of Life will be held in the coming weeks.

We will miss you, Dad.