Tom Gilbert went to be with the Lord suddenly on the afternoon of August 31, 2021. He was born in Livingston, MT, on May 2, 1942, the eldest son of John and Charlene Gilbert. He married his sweetheart, Barbara Boeh Gilbert, on July 14, 1966. A lifelong resident of Montana, he spent most of his years in Clyde Park and he and Barb found peace and happiness in the beauty of the outdoors. He continuously gave unselfishly to his family, friends, community, and his beloved country. Tom graduated from Clyde Park High School in 1960. Immediately joining the Montana Army National Guard, he served until 1980, retiring after 20 years of service. He had a successful welding shop in Clyde Park for several years, and then he worked as a Boilermaker for Burlington Northern Railroad, and later as an Engineer for Montana Rail Link until his retirement in 2004. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Barbara; his brothers and their wives, Philip (Brenda) Gilbert of Clyde Park, and Rob (Gloria) Gilbert of Belgrade; three sons, Blaine (Sherry) Gilbert, Mesa, AZ; Brett (Mary) Gilbert, East Helena, MT; Chad (Amy) Gilbert, Colorado Springs, CO. He was the proud Grandpa of 8 grandchildren, Matthew, Tommy, Jenna, Zak, Trey, Miles, Jackson, and Isabella, and 3 great-grandchildren, Rahelyn, Maddox, and Wyatt. Tom was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Oralee (Howard) Alverson (1987). Although he spent many years working away from home, he cherished his time with his family and regretted the events that he was forced to miss. Later in life, he was dedicated to making up for lost time and he always found a way to give back-working tirelessly on the sawmill, in his shop, or creating unique pieces in his woodshop-which were almost always gifted, donated, or otherwise given to whomever asked him for something. Well-known in the community for his smile and overall kindness, he served as a member and sergeant-at-arms at the American Legion Post 23 in Livingston. He was also very fond of his friends in the Legion Riders. There will be a small service for immediate family members only. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be sent to the American Legion Park Post 23, 112 North B St., Livingston, MT, 59047. Franzen-Davis Funeral Home and Crematory has been entrusted with arrangements. To view the tribute page or leave condolences, visit www.franzen-davis.com.