James R. Gilbert

James R. Gilbert, 97, of West Lafayette, passed away with family by his side on Tuesday, November 7, 2023, at Westminster Village in West Lafayette.

Jim was born on August 17, 1926, in Lafayette, IN, to the late Lowell and Beryl (Mason) Gilbert and was a member of the 1944 class of Remington High School.

Jim married Phyllis (Hackley) Gilbert on August 3, 1946, in Fowler. He and Phyllis were fortunate to happily celebrate their 75th wedding anniversary together in August 2021. Jim was a loving husband and father. They raised five children while operating their family farm in Benton County. His interest in the business of raising and breeding hogs began as a young man while participating in 4-H. He was very active in the community. Jim served on the Benton Community School Board, as well as serving as a Benton County Commissioner. He is a past president of the Indiana Poland China Association and the Benton County Pork Producers Association, as well as a past director of the Indiana Pork Producers, the Benton County Fair Board, and Benton County 4-H. He was also on the Board of Directors of the State Bank of Remington and through their subsequent mergers. He is a member of the Masonic and Elks lodges, the Scottish Rite, the Murat Shrine, and the Presbyterian Church. His interests beyond business and farming included traveling and being an avid Purdue Boilermakers Women’s Basketball fan. He cherished his time spent with family and friends!

Surviving are their four daughters, Carol Gilbert of Plymouth, Diane (Robert) Miller of New Castle, Elaine (Jerry) Scott of Lafayette, Marla (David) Ostermeyer of Carmel, as well as a daughter-in-law, Bernice Gilbert of Remington. He is also survived by nine grandchildren, Katherine (Joel) Vanderwall, Daniel (Adrienne) Gilbert, Nicole (Jerry) Weaver, Richard (Emily) Miller, Paul (Julie) Sadler, Adam (Allyssa) Sadler, Brady (Sarah) Sadler, Mark (Sarah) Ostermeyer, and Matthew (Alicia) Ostermeyer, and 14 great-grandchildren.

Preceding Jim in death were his wife Phyllis and their one son, John Gilbert.

Friends may call from 10-12 Noon (EST) Saturday, November 11, 2023, at Stitz-Clapper Funeral Home of Remington. Funeral Service to follow at 12 Noon (EST) also at Stitz-Clapper Funeral Home. Interment to follow in Remington Cemetery. Matt Ostermeyer will officiate the service.

Memorial contributions may be made in Jim’s name to Rock Steady Boxing or the Benton Community Foundation.

Share memories and condolences online at http://www.clapperfuneralservices.com