Rowland Gilbert
In Memory of
Rowland V.
Gilbert Sr.
1932 - 2019
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Strong-Hancock Funeral Home
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Obituary for Rowland V. Gilbert Sr.

Rowland V.  Gilbert Sr.
Rowland Victor Gilbert, Sr., 86 of Damariscotta, Maine, passed away peacefully on the morning of February 13, 2019, in his home surrounded by loving family and his loyal dog, Sunday.

Rowland was born on June 27, 1932, to Walter T. and Velma H. Gilbert. He was the eldest of seven children and enjoyed the adventure rich area of South Bristol to grow up and attend school. He cherished the memories of lobstering and hunting with his father and brothers. High school years were spent as a boarding student in Newcastle, where he was able to attend and graduate from Lincoln Academy in 1950.

Rowland entered the U.S. Navy and honored his country with 20 years of service. During his military service, he was recognized as a prized boxer and earned a commission as Chief Warrant Officer. After retirement from the Navy, Rowland returned to the sea of his youth, and lobstered for a short time. He was the caretaker of Johns Island and his carpentry work can be found all around the local area, including his childhood home in Christmas Cove. Rowland loved spending time on his boat, Wanderer III, and never lost an opportunity to be on the ocean.

Rowland made his home in Damariscotta where he, his eight children and numerous pets, enjoyed his beloved “back 40”. He was a self taught oil painter, despite being color blind, and loved to paint the landscapes of Maine. He could be found walking around town and searching for a good story at Waltz's coffee shop.

Rowland is survived by siblings, June Lovell of NV, Dexter Gilbert of WV, Jackie Progue of FL, and Valerie Fossett of ME; his children, Shari (Luc) Jutras of NC, David Gilbert of ME, Dawn Estey of ME, Rowland Gilbert, Jr (Deb) of NC, Jaqueline (Jim) Nelson of ME, Jerry Gilbert of AZ, Philip (Kim) Gilbert of ME, and Kerri Jo (Jabez) Smith of ID; as well as many beloved family and friends.

Rowland was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Velma Gilbert; brothers, Douglas and Shannon Gilbert; and longtime companion, Patricia Grant.

Relatives and friends are invited to join the family for a time of visitation, 12 noon - 1PM on Tuesday, February 19, 2019 and a funeral with Military honors will follow at 1PM at the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home in Damariscotta. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made the the Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516.

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