Melvin M. “Mush” Gilbert Sr., 83 – Enjoyed Camping with His Wife

Melvin M. “Mush” Gilbert Sr., 83, of Schuylkill Haven, passed away Friday, Jan. 8, at home.

Born Dec. 31, 1937, in Schuylkill Haven, he was a son of the late Ceylon Sr. and Alice (Moyer) Gilbert.

He was the husband of Mary E. (Schwartz) Gilbert. The couple celebrated 57 years of marriage Oct. 19.

Melvin attended Schuylkill Haven schools.

He served in the Army National Guard, and was an aircraft gunner and a cook.

Melvin was a member of Zion’s Red Church, Orwigsburg.

He was a life member of Friedensburg Fish & Game, and he was a social member of Landingville Fire Company. Melvin and his wife enjoyed camping at Christmas Pines for 50 years.

Melvin had been employed by Sol Enterprises as plant manager, and Peek-a-Boo textile factories, both in Schuylkill Haven, as a sewing machine mechanic. He retired from United Metal, Pottsville, as a dye setter.

In addition to his parents, Melvin was preceded in death by his brothers, Carlson Gilbert, Ceylon Gilbert Jr., Nelson Gilbert and Lowell Gilbert; his sister, Betty Moyer.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Marlo, wife of Mike Kershner, of Pine Grove, and Melissa, wife of John Strauch, of Schuylkill Haven; two sons, Melvin M. Gilbert Jr., of Schuylkill Haven, and Martin, husband of Becki Gilbert, of Schuylkill Haven. He is also survived by grandchildren, Melvin M. Gilbert III, Jonah Gilbert, Cassie Deaven, wife of Dakota, Casey Kershner, Hunter Strauch, Jacob Gilbert and Aaron Gilbert; a great-granddaughter, Mya Gilbert; a sister, Suzanne, wife of Harold Schrader, of Schuylkill Haven; a brother, Dale Gilbert Sr., of Auburn; nieces and nephews.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, memorial services will be held at a later date. At the family’s request, donations in Melvin’s memory may be forwarded to Landingville Fire Company, 1 Firehouse Road, Landingville, PA 17972.