John-Webster-Gilbert-68399

Obituary

Saturday night at 11 o'clock occurred the death of one of Burlington's staunchest citizens in the person of Mr. J.W. Gilbert. Mr. Gilbert had been somewhat indisposed for several days past, but went down to his place of business Friday and intended going down Saturday but for the very inclement weather his family thought it advisable for him to stay indoors. He retired at his usual hour feeling quite well, but at 10 o'clock symptoms of heart failure became evident and at 11 o'clock he was dead. Mr. Gilbert's health had not been of the best for several years, he having frequently suffered from nasal hemorrhages and heart weakness.
Mr. Gilbert was born in the state of Kentucky 72 years ago. When he was a child four years of age, his parents moved to Wisconsin, where the father engaged in the lumber business. Several years later the family removed to the pineries on the Menominee river, and when the son grew to manhood he was his father's able assistant in all his business ventures. in 1851 the father retired to private life and settled in Albany, Ill., when the son, J.W. Gilbert, together with his brother, the late W.D. Gilbert came to Burlington and engaged in the lumber business in this city. From a very small beginning they worked their business up to the present large industry. Mr. Gilbert has always been identified with the interests of Burlington. His commercial and private life have always been above reproach. At the time of his death he was vice president of the German American Savings bank. Mr. Gilbert has also served in the city council, being re-elected several times. On March 21, 1854 he was married to Miss Harriet Holbrook, a sister of the late Mrs. Luke Palmer, Sr. To this union four children were born, two daughters, who died in childhood, and two sons James I. and Samuel P. The former died at Duluth several years ago and Samuel P. Gilbert, who was associated with him in their business in this city, survives him. The funeral will be held Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the residence. Rev. Dr. Salter and Rev. F.N. White will conduct the ceremonies.
J.W. Gilbert died at his home here late last night at the age of 73 years. He was born in Kentucky, and moved to Burlington in 1851 and organized the lumber firm which is now "Gilbert, Hedge 7 Co." one of the largest in the middle West. He was connected with many successful business enterprises outside of the lumber business, and at the time of his death was the vie president of the German-American Savings Bank of this city.