John Gilbert

John A Gilbert, 68, passed away peacefully at his Ankeny home on April 20, 2023, following a long battle with cancer.

Born May 7, 1954, in Des Moines, IA, he grew up on a farm near Milo where he learned many valuable life skills while working with his dad. He enjoyed working with his hands so following high school he attended DMACC taking classes in Building Trades. Using those skills, he constructed three houses for his family, was always making improvements everywhere he lived and was the owner of Steel Builders Inc.

John loved Jesus and had a strong faith in God. He loved to share his faith and touched many hearts.

Those left behind are his wife Terry, and his children Bryce (Katie) Gilbert, Lon Gilbert, Erin (Eric) Meyer, Christopher (Roxanna) Fontana, Stephanie (Ro Ortiz) Fontana, Jonathan Fontana and grandchildren Kolton, Ashlyn, Aiden, Ellie, Owen, Bradley, SierraLynne, Austin, Juliana, Luca, Anthony, Hayden, and Sophia. Also, sisters Susan (Steven) Laws and Barb (Dale) Van Hove and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Life will be held at 6:00 pm on Thursday, April 27, 2023 at New City Church, 3114 SW 61st Street, Des Moines, IA. In lieu of flowers, John has requested that memorials be directed to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Folds of Honor.