Leon Russell Gilbert passed away peacefully on October 23, 2009, at the age of 81 at home in West Olive Mi. Leon (Lee) began his life in Fennville Michigan as the eldest son of his deceased parents Russell and Vera Gilbert. In 1950 Lee married the love of his life Connie Radeke who preceded Lee in death in 1996. Lee and Connie raised four children in Grand Rapids, where he worked in the furniture business. They moved from Grand Rapids to West Olive for retirement in 1986. Lee will be fondly remembered by his children; Merry Gilbert (Robert Murray), of Columbus OH, Cynthia Dykema (Robert ), of Clarksville MI, Kerry Gilbert Kreps (Michael Kreps), of Kalamazoo, MI, and Lee Gilbert (Norma) of Grandville, MI. Lee is survived by his brother Ray Gilbert (Gail) of Grants Pass, OR and his devoted sister Linda Rexford (Bill) of Casnovia, MI. Lee was the proud grandfather of his six grandchildren, Caitlin Magnacca (Christian), Brendan Murray and Kevin Murray, Matt Proch, Kimberly and Spencer Gilbert, and a host of step-grandchildren, all of whom will miss him dearly and mourn his loss. Lee will also be missed by his companion and loyal dog Sadie. We will forever remember our father for his strength, his compassion and his commitment to his family. The family respected his desire to live independently and he did. Our love for our father will never end. In lieu of flowers, please send contributions in Lee's name to North Ottawa Humane Society. Visitation will be Sunday, October 25, 2009 from 3-5 p.m. Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m. Monday, October 26, 2009, with visitation from 1-2 p.m., all at the Chappell Funeral Home, 637 W. Main ST. Fennville, MI. Officiating will be Fr. Tim Cuny O.S.A, and burial will be in the Fennville Cemetery. An online registry book is available at www.chappellfuneralhome.com