Belmont------Valerie “Val” L. Gilbert, 63, of Hubble Road, passed away suddenly on Friday, April 6, 2018 at Lakes Region General Hospital, while surrounded by her family.
Val was born December 7, 1954 in Boston. She was the daughter of the late Bruce and Beverly (Cutler) Ferris. When she was a teenager, the family moved to the Lakes Region, where Val remained for nearly 50 years. In this area, Val found success working at McDonald’s in Tilton, holding the position of manager for many years.
Val’s big heart and giving nature touched many. From the sea of gifts that would fill her home on Christmas to the endless pizzas she’d provide to family and friends on motorcycle weekend, Val made sure everyone was taken care of. Her favorite pastimes, which included “going racing”, camping, and going to the beach, were always more special because of the people with whom she shared these experiences.
The role Val most loved, however, was her role as grandmother. It brought her joy to bake with her grandchildren, take them out for ice cream, and enjoy dinner with them at the Olive Garden. Always looking for a smile, she was known to sneak them lollipops, help with puzzles, and so much more.
Val is survived by her husband, with whom she had shared thirty-seven years, Theodore “Ted” Gilbert; her son, Ryan Gilbert and his wife Teena of Belmont, NH; her daughters Jennie Nelson and her husband Randy of Dighton, MA and Melissa LaClair of Keene, NH; and eight grandchildren, Lauren, Nathan, Anthony, Damien, Connor, Nicholas, Noah, and Logan. She is also survived by a brother, Stephen Ferris of Dalton, NH; a sister, Sandra Ferris of Plymouth, MA; and many nieces and nephews. Val is predeceased by a sister, Karen Ferris.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, April 12, 2018 from 10am – 11:30am in the Carriage House of the Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia.
A Funeral Service will immediately follow the calling hour at 11:30am, also at the Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggest donations in Val’s name be made to the Laconia Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, 175 Blueberry Lane Laconia, NH 03246.
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Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day…unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed and very dear.
Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia NH is assisting the family with the arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial go to ww.wilkinsonbeane.com.